Real-time web-based visualization of the Radon transform

Abstract. The Radon transform is the mathematical tool behind nowadays widely used medical imaging techniques for diagnostic purposes such as Computer Tomography (CT). In this paper we discuss two of our web-based approaches which allow one to interactively create sample images and examine their Radon transform in order to study simple examples and basic properties of the transform. We present that the transform (more precisely its support) can be calculated in an analytic way such that it allows (near) real-time visualization, orders of magnitude faster than in earlier accessible solutions. We claim that currently this may be the best approach for introductory educational and science communication purposes about the Radon transform.