CNN has significantly upgraded its weather reporting capabilities with the launch of its new “Extreme Weather Center,” a state-of-the-art virtual set. “CNN asked for an array of easily manipulable presentation areas focused on realistic weather and climate themes,” Clickspring Design, the creators of the 3D model, explained to NewscastStudio.
A primary design goal was to create a spacious and adaptable virtual environment for non-linear coverage. Clickspring emphasized the need for an open and flexible space to accommodate CNN's existing workflow. “The virtual space was designed to resemble a realistic piece of architecture, establishing a sense of place that was rooted in believability as an environment for broadcasting the news,” Clickspring noted.
The central feature is a main weather venue, scalable to double or triple height and capable of showcasing dynamic graphics. Surrounding this are smaller areas with minimal desks and displays, complemented by virtual glass vitrines showcasing realistic weather simulations. Tracking screens operate virtually, moving smoothly across zones as required. Clickspring chose to eliminate opaque walls, providing floor-to-ceiling views of a virtual outdoor environment, forging a strong connection between the virtual studio and the real-world weather phenomena.
“Since we wanted the space to feel believable, we kept the ‘screens’ as they would likely be configured in a true, physical set,” Clickspring clarified. Three virtual displays track radially, enabling shooting styles similar to a traditional studio, with cameras converging in the center and shooting outward. “Unlike a physical studio, these virtual cameras don’t take up any floor space, so we can also seamlessly shoot inwards from the outer-perimeter, which is the other area where we sited a screen,” the Clickspring team added.
The design seamlessly integrates with CNN’s existing on-air aesthetic, aligning with physical sets created by Clickspring in New York and Atlanta. Studio H in Atlanta also incorporates augmented reality extensions. Girraphic collaborated with CNN to implement the models using Unreal Engine 5. The final design includes prominent CNN logos, integrated after Clickspring delivered the project.
Before the Extreme Weather Center, CNN primarily utilized a smaller physical studio with video screens and AR capabilities. This new virtual studio represents a substantial leap forward in their weather presentation.