An evaluation of techniques for selecting moving targets

Moving targets are found in numerous applications such as computer games, air traffic control systems, and video surveillance. The selection of moving targets is considerably more difficult and error prone than traditional stationary target selection. In this paper, we introduce Comet Tails and Target Lock, two techniques that support the selection of moving targets. Our goal is to facilitate accurate and fast selection of moving targets. We compare our two techniques to unassisted selection in a controlled experiment. The results show that for moving target selection, Comet Tails and Target Lock can outperform unassisted selection, and result in fewer errors. According to post-experiment questionnaires, participants indicate a stronger preference for assisted target selection with Comet Tails and Target Lock than unassisted selection.