Graphics applications for grid computing [Guest Editors' Introduction]

While many application scenarios are not yet possible, grid computing will provide access to distributed resources with the same ease we now access electrical power. Clearly, the ability to analyze data within this distributed environment is critical to the success of the grid. To successfully analyze data, we need visualization tools. This special issue provides a glimpse at the future of grid visualization by exploring working prototypes that exploit distributed resources. These articles provide an insight into how visualization can effectively use, analyze, and explore grid-based data and applications. The included articles are briefly summarized.