# How does one append/change the values of matrix_basis directly in blender using the python API?

I have a set of 3 orthonormal vectors(x_vec, y_vec, z_vec: know values) defining a particular position in the global frame, I want to align an Empty's XYZ axes to the above mentioned orthonormal vectors. I tried rotations and all sort of stuff but it doesn't seem to align properly. I figured that changing the matrix_basis of the empty directly to that of the 3 orthonormal vectors' rotation matrix is the most efficient way to do it, but I can't seem to modify the values of the matrix_basis of the Empty.

Any help will be appreciated. Thanks!

• matrix_basis is a two dimensional array and you can adjust each element manually if you wish. mathutils might help. Is the rotation order correct? – sambler Mar 27 '17 at 8:39
• Unfortunately, adjusting each element is not supported in blender. – DaPineappleDude Mar 31 '17 at 23:04
• Does for me, object.matrix_basis[1][1] = 0.5 changes the objects y scale to 0.5. mathutils does make it easier to work with matrices without having to know what indices are needed for each component. – sambler Apr 1 '17 at 5:15