The rules of 4-dimensional perspective: How to implement Lorentz transformations in relativistic visualization

Abstract

This paper presents a pedagogical introduction to the issue of how to implement Lorentz transformations in relativistic visualization. The most efficient approach is to use the even geometric algebra in 3+1 spacetime dimensions, or equivalently complex quaternions, which are fast, compact, and robust, and straightforward to compose, interpolate, and spline. The approach has been incorporated into the Black Hole Flight Simulator, an interactive general relativistic ray-tracing program developed by the author.