Cesium is a software platform for building applications and experiences with 3D geospatial data.
Cesium powers thousands of applications like NORAD Tracks Santa across industries like aerospace, AEC (architecture, engineering, and construction), energy, commercial real estate, and defense. ]
We begin with data collected from NORAD, an organization that defends North America by tracking objects flying in and around its airspace. This geospatial data is updated on CesiumJS, a highly precise virtual globe consisting of 3D terrain and satellite imagery that accurately reflects the light from the sun and the position of the stars. We then combine the data with the virtual CesiumJS globe and a 3D model of Santa’s sleigh to enable millions of people to visualize Santa’s location in real time.
Our technology is at the intersection of computer graphics and 3D geospatial, a unique business model that reflects our commitment to openness and interoperability and our roots in the aerospace industry.
From tracking rocket launches to mapping the ocean floor, exploring cultural heritage sites to creating digital twins of critical infrastructure, the Cesium ecosystem includes thousands of applications for a broad range of use cases.
Join us for the first global Cesium community event June 23-25, 2025, in Philadelphia. Sign up for event updates.
Follow the tutorial to build a flight tracker
with data collected by FlightRadar24.
Written by Gabby Getz,
In User Stories, CesiumJS, News
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In 3D Tiles, Cesium for Unreal, User Stories, Photorealistic 3D Tiles, Media & Entertainment
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"VentureBeat caught up with Patrick Cozzi, CEO of Cesium, who conceived the idea for 3D Tiles."
CEO Patrick Cozzi said Cesium is deeply involved in building the metaverse and is one of the strongest advocates for making sure it is open and interoperable.
"Cesium’s expertise in cloud-based geospatial software and emphasis on open standards for streaming massive amounts of 3D content fits with Epic’s vision for an open metaverse."