Students at Falmouth University have developed a virtual reality experience to engage young people with space and STEAM careers.
The new experience provides insight into life at the UK's first licensed Spaceport, in Newquay, allowing users to witness a virtual journey through the facilities at Spaceport Cornwall and witness the first horizontal launch from the UK.
Interacting with key figures in UK space, including British astronaut, Tim Peake; Melissa Quinn, head of Spaceport Cornwall for the first launch; and flight lieutenant Matthew “Stanny” Stannard, who was tasked with flying the converted Boeing 747 with the LauncherOne rocket attached.
The UK Space Agency provided £10,000 to support the development of Falmouth University’s VR experience with a view to "help inspire and engage the next generation of space professionals" and help sustain the future talent pipeline.
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The project came together under the guidance of project lead, Brian Waterfield, and the support of Naomi Johns. They brought together a team of artists and developers from Falmouth University, with support from students at Truro and Penwith College.
Combining technology, design, visuals, and animation to create an immersive experience that hopes to "captivate, educate and inspire users".
Brian Waterfield, head of immersive production, Falmouth University, said: “Through the power of collaboration, this talented team managed to capture the true essence of the launch, weaving a captivating narrative that resonates with users. The educational experience developed by this exceptional team stands as a testament to their collective creativity, dedication, and expertise.”
Ian Annett, deputy chief executive at the UK Space Agency, added: “Falmouth University’s virtual reality experience is an exciting resource for young people engaging with the Space for Everyone tour, giving them a chance to learn about the UK’s work in space in a new and exciting way. The UK Space Agency provided £10,000 to the project, which is an excellent example of how we need more than astrophysicists to build a thriving space sector. We also need artists, designers, educators and much more. There are opportunities for everyone, of all backgrounds and skills, to become space professionals and help sustain our future talent pipeline.”
The ‘Space for Everyone’ tour will see events take place across the UK and Northern Ireland this summer, giving visitors the opportunity to learn about the diverse and varied career paths available to young people looking to enter the fast-growing space industry. The VR experience will be a part of a wider array of activities and experiences on offer in each location.
The UK Space Agency’s ‘Space for Everyone’ tour is visiting Southampton, Swansea, Leicester, Bradford, Belfast, Aberdeen, Newcastle, Hull, Great Yarmouth and Hastings on between June 1 and September 4.
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