Blender

Procedural Solar System

While learning a bit of Blender, I created a python script that generates a solar system with random planets, moons, and background stars (galaxies).

Each plant generated is chosen from 3 types: standard, rock, and water which then applies different materials based on the type. Every planet will be placed at a some orbit away from the star and has the possibility to have it’s own moons. The background stars are just spheres with random colors applied.

The script sets render settings, so after the system is generated, an animation of the planets and moons orbiting their parent can be made by selecting Render > Render Animation in the top bar. The output images can be used with the Video Sequencer to create a video of the animation. I like the result because it reminds me of Final Fantasy 7.

Pumpkins

My kids at this time were really into Halloween, and especially pumpkins, so I decided to see if I could model some in Blender. It turns out getting the stem to look halfway decent isn’t easy. I’m still not 100% satisfied with how it looks, but at some point enough is enough.