Meta announced that Meta Immersive Learning has partnered with the Smithsonian on a new virtual reality exhibit called “Futures x Meta: Moonwalk.” This exhibit uses VR technology to simulate the experience of walking on the Moon’s surface. Smithsonian Arts and Industry Building (AIB) promotes the experience as part of its “Futures” exhibition on May 4. The exhibition will continue until 6 June.
Meta also sees this as a preview of their metaverse tutorials.
Moonwalk was created by Meta Immersive Learning partners Meridian Treehouse, Black Dot Films, and Sparks. The environment was constructed with thousands of archival images, 3D scans of the Apollo 11 command module, and NASA mission recordings. Monica Arés, Head of Meta Immersive Learning, said in a statement;
“Partnering with the Smithsonian’s Arts and Industries Building allows us to showcase how immersive technology can transform the way we learn by exploring simulated environments. Through a combination of in-person, virtual, and immersive experiences in the metaverse, we can increase access to education and help build a more connected and curious world.”
The Moonwalk experience was timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Apollo missions. Visitors will wear the Meta Quest 2 helmet and view the lunar landscape like Apollo astronauts. They’ll be able to see the rover, kick the dust, and listen to the astronauts’ honest conversations from the surface of the Moon.
