Geometric Solar Flares with particlesGPU

ParticlesGPU is an amazing tool for working with particle systems in TouchDesigner. As a GPU-based compute shader, it offers higher performance with larger particle counts than previous methods. Since the initial release of the 2022 version of TouchDesigner, many exciting new additions have been made to particlesGPU, including the ability to use forces, a favorite feature previously only found with SOP-based particles in the program.

In this video, Jack DiLaura will walk you through making a cool particle system effect that looks something like a geometric interpretation of solar flares. You’ll work on converting SOP geometry for use with the new particlesGPU system, setting up multiple forces, modifying the simulation parameters and aesthetic of the particle system, as well as adding post effects to further refine the visual output.