Smithsonian 3D Program - Are the models free...? How to get them?

Jonathan85

Hello, are the models of the Smithsonian 3D Program - here:

https://3d.si.edu/browser

Are they available for free...? Or whats the license? And can i download or somehow get them...?

Is there a tool/site/program for example that can extract the 3D model from their website...?

I maybe stupid but i cannot find the info about this on their page... Also i saw somewhere on soem othed free 3D "exchange/download" site a model that was supposedly from their website (it even linked back)... So it should be able to get/download the models from there somehow...?

Eric Chadwick

Scroll to the bottom of the page to find the Terms of Use link.

These are likely to be glTF files, if there's no download link, you might be able to use your browser's developer tools to find the model URL inside the web page code.

FrankPolygon

It may make sense to contact the Smithsonian directly if you have questions about using their content. Their terms of use page outlines permitted use and who to contact for unpermitted (commercial) use. https://www.si.edu/termsofuse

The email address for their Office of Product Development and Licensing is also listed on that page. I would strongly recommend reaching out to them with any licensing questions you have.

Eric Chadwick

The Smithsonian is about to release these 3D models and more. They're still working on finalizing the usage rights, and delivery date, though it's likely within a couple months.

They intend to release as much as possible using CC0 (public domain), and provide easy ways to download and use the content. However some of the models may end up with more restrictive licenses. 

About downloading models. Members here have ripped models from games for educational purposes, and that's generally condoned. We all learn from each other, and looking closely at wireframes and UV layouts and texture sheets is a part of that.

However we don't support blatantly illegal activity such as commercial use of ripped content, ripping from pirated games, bypassing software licensing, illegally downloading software, torrenting keygens, and the like.

Many of us are professional game developers, we rely on customers purchasing our games so we can make a living. When people circumvent paying for software or assets, that ends up hurting us directly. Besides, it's just a dick move. I'm sure you all know this, just trying to provide some clarity.

Anyhow, when I hear more about the Smithsonian models I'll post an update.

Jonathan85

Cool, thanks :-)