Vectors

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A vector is a line segment with an arrow tip on one end illustrating a direction. A vector’s origin is at the center of its parent object; the vector arrow tip points in the direction to be illustrated. A vector’s length, color and other attributes are picked automatically to achieve good visual appeal. Any vector can be right-clicked to open a context menu with functions specific to that vector including the Set Properties panel that has controls for changing vector’s text label, transparency, color, and size. See Vector Functions for more information.
Block 3 of the object context menu provides options enabling users to visualize four different types of vectors:
Vector
Description
Method(s) to Render Vector
Velocity Direction
Shows vector that points in the direction of the object’s inertial velocity.
  • Object Menu: Right-click object and click Velocity Direction from the displayed options.
Sun Direction
Shows vector that points towards the Sun.
  • Object Menu: Right-click object and click Sun Direction from the displayed options.
Earth Direction
Shows vector that points towards the Earth.
  • Object Menu: Right-click object and click Earth Direction from the displayed options.
OBJECT Direction
Shows vector that points in the direction of another object [OBJECT].
  • Object Menu: Select object TO WHICH the direction vector will point [OBJECT]. Right-click object FROM WHICH the direction vector will point. Click OBJECT Direction from the displayed options.