Google has this week unveiled a new virtual reality experience called Access Mars, created that allows virtual reality users to experience the planet Mars from the safety of earth.
The Access Mars project has been created thanks to a partnership between Google and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab and uses imagery from the Mars Curiosity Rover which landed on the red planet back in August 2012.
Immersive 360-Degree View
The 360-degree view of the planet has been created using technology similar to that incorporated into Google Maps Street View. This immersive experience allows users to navigate the Martian terrain as if they were actually there, providing a unique educational tool for students, scientists, and space enthusiasts alike. The detailed imagery offers a close-up look at various Martian landmarks, including the Gale Crater, where the Curiosity Rover landed. This feature not only enhances the user experience but also serves as a valuable resource for researchers studying the planet’s surface.
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk is sure to be interested in the new virtual reality experience Mars as he wants to start colonising the red planet by 2024. Musk’s ambitious plans include sending the first human missions to Mars within the next few years, and tools like Access Mars could play a crucial role in preparing astronauts for the challenges they will face on the Martian surface.
Exploring Beyond Mars
Google has also made it possible to explore the International Space Station (ISS) using Google Street View technology. This feature allows users to virtually tour the ISS, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of astronauts and the complex systems that keep the station operational. The ISS tour includes detailed views of various modules, scientific equipment, and even the breathtaking views of Earth from space. This initiative not only brings space exploration closer to the public but also inspires the next generation of scientists and engineers.
The collaboration between Google and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab highlights the potential of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies in advancing our understanding of space. These tools can be used for educational purposes, training astronauts, and even planning future missions. For instance, virtual reality simulations can help astronauts practice landing maneuvers, conduct scientific experiments, and troubleshoot potential issues before they arise in real missions.
Moreover, the Access Mars project and the ISS tour are part of a broader trend of using technology to make space more accessible to the general public. With the rise of private space companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and others, there is a growing interest in space tourism and commercial space travel. Virtual reality experiences like Access Mars can serve as a stepping stone for those who dream of one day traveling to space.
Check out the article over on the official Google Blog by following the link below.
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
