mesa-explorer

Web-based visualization tool for the MESA simulations of stars. Built with Bootstrap 5 and d3 v7.8.4

Access the live app at billwolf.space/mesa-explorer.

Features

File Management

• Multi-format Support: Import MESA history files, profile files, and GYRE summary files
• Multi-file Selection: Load multiple files simultaneously using standard file selection controls
• Automatic File Detection: Files are automatically categorized and sorted (histories, then profiles, then GYRE files)
• File Icons: Visual indicators distinguish between different file types (clock for history, star for profile, broadcast for GYRE)

Visualization Controls

• Dual Y-Axes: Plot data on both left and right y-axes for comparing different quantities
• Multiple Series: Add multiple data series to each axis for comprehensive comparisons
• Interactive Tools:
  • Inspector tool for data point examination
  • Pan and zoom capabilities
  • Box zoom for precise region selection
  • One-click view reset
• Real-time Preview: Mini floating plot provides overview during navigation

Data Transformation

• Flexible Scaling: Apply linear, logarithmic, or exponential transformations to data
• Data Operations:
  • Zero-point adjustment for relative measurements
  • Absolute value transformation
  • Automatic log scale detection for known quantities
• Axis Controls: Independent scale settings (linear/logarithmic) for each axis with custom limits

Styling and Export

• Color Schemes: Multiple predefined color palettes (Tableau, D3, ColorBrewer)
• Style Customization:
  • Individual series styling (line width, marker size, opacity)
  • Global font size control
  • Line and scatter plot options
• Export Options: High-quality SVG download with proper light mode formatting
• Responsive Design: Adaptive interface that works on different screen sizes

User Experience

• Dark/Light Mode: Full support for both themes with automatic color adaptation
• Keyboard Navigation: Arrow key support in dropdown menus, Enter key selection
• Search Functionality: Quick column search with real-time filtering
• Collapsible Sections: Organized interface with expandable settings panels
• File Panel Toggle: Hide/show file list to maximize plotting area

Data Intelligence

• Smart Defaults: Automatic detection of logarithmic quantities (e.g., log_L, lg_mdot)
• Model Validation: Automatic filtering of non-monotonic model numbers in history files
• Column Recognition: Integration with known MESA and GYRE column definitions
• Responsive Labels: Automatic axis labeling with mathematical notation support

Usage Tips

• Use Shift or Ctrl/Cmd keys when selecting files to import multiple files at once
• The search function in column dropdowns supports partial matching for quick column finding
• Collapsible axis settings help keep the interface clean while providing full control when needed
• The inspector tool provides precise coordinate readouts when hovering over the plot
• Series can be easily reordered or removed using the style controls panel