Creating interactive 3D simulations can be an exciting and educational endeavor.

With the help of AI tools like Claude AI, developing complex visualizations becomes more accessible and efficient.

This tutorial will guide you through the process of building a 3D solar system simulation from scratch using HTML5, JavaScript, and CSS. You will learn how to add planets, simulate realistic physics, and enhance visual and interactive elements.

Key Objectives

1. Define the main functionality of the simulation.
2. Generate and customize the basic structure of the simulation.
3. Enhance the visual appeal and interactive features.
4. Test, debug, and refine the simulation.

Generating the Basic Simulation Structure

First, you need to go to Claude and if you don't already have one create an account (free or not).

Use the following prompt to generate the basic structure of your 3D simulation:

Create a 3D solar system simulation. The simulation should allow users to add random planets, move them around, and have them collide with each other. The planets should have realistic physics and collision effects. Use HTML5 Javascript and CSS

Customizing the Simulation

Let's add the Sun!

Use this simple prompt:

I want the planets to orbit the sun

Enhance Visual Appeal:

Use a prompt to improve the visual aspects of the simulation:

Add a background to the solar system to make the simulation more visually appealing.

We now have stars in the background!

One more thing you could ask Claude:

What could you improve visually without needing external assets?

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There you go! Don't hesitate to ask Claude to integrate new features. Bear in mind that very often, the context and artifacts functionality are too limited for Claude to really integrate everything you have in mind.