Using the Fly tool

Available with 3D Analyst license.

The Fly tool allows you to investigate your scene by flying through it. You can fly in any direction and move forward or backward at different speeds.

The Fly tool primarily controls the target location, moving it forward or backward in the direction of the mouse pointer, while the observer location automatically follows along behind it. This tool will require some practice to master.

When first learning to navigate in ArcGlobe, it may be useful to start with the Walk tool—which automatically maintains a constant observer elevation above the globe surface—and then work your way up to the Fly tool.

1. In ArcGlobe, click the Fly button.

The cursor changes to indicate Fly mode is active.

2. Click once in the center of the 3D view.

The tool enters a suspended state. You can point the mouse to look in all directions, but there is no translational movement. This is sometimes referred to as a "free look mode".

3. Click the mouse to move forward, or right-click to move backward.

Successive clicks in either direction increase the speed, which is indicated in the status bar window. A negative speed value indicates backward movement.

4. Press ESC to immediately stop movement in either direction.

Tip:

• Between mouse clicks, you can fine-tune the fly speed by pressing the Up or Down arrow keys to increase or decrease speed, respectively.
• Hold the SHIFT key while flying to maintain a constant elevation. You can then point the mouse around without flying underground or out into space.