Scalable multi-GPU cloud raytracing with OpenGL

Using skyboxes with pre-generated cube-map textures is a popular approach to visualize distant details in computer games and other semi-realistic outdoor area simulations. This approach is so common that graphics hardware has direct suport for cube-mapping. One of the challenges with using skyboxes is the creation of realisticlly looking sky cube-map textures. In this paper we present cloud trace - a customizable raytracer for generating such cube-maps, that is capable of harnessing the computing power of multiple modern GPUs to perform the necessary calculations.