The Metaverse is a digital realm where users can interact in real time using augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies. Now, NASA, the world’s foremost space agency known for its cutting-edge space exploration technologies, is poised to tap into the potential of the Metaverse.
As government structures increasingly adopt metaverse technology for their internal operations, notable examples include Interpol using a shared virtual space to combat cybercrime, the CIA using it for immersive agent training, the U.S. Department of Defense for real-time battlefield simulations, and the Japanese government for developing virtual tourism.
While we enjoy socializing with friends, trading, or dancing at virtual parties in the metaverse, NASA astronauts are already training for life on a lunar space station using a virtual lunar module.
NASA has consistently been at the forefront of technological innovation, pushing the boundaries of human exploration. The advent of the Metaverse has opened up new possibilities for conducting experiments in simulated environments and for direct collaboration with experts worldwide.
As part of its development of the Gateway lunar space station, NASA has opted to conduct both technical and psychological training for its future inhabitants in virtual reality. The Gateway is poised to become humanity's first habitable space module and a vital component of NASA's plans for Mars colonization and deep space exploration.
What Will NASA Astronauts Train for in the Metaverse?
The Metaverse, meticulously recreating every detail of the future module, will allow for optimal refinement of the design of the next-generation space science laboratory, transforming it into a true home for astronauts.
Experienced astronauts, Raja Chari and Nicole Mann, who have spent extensive periods in space and understand the intricacies of space station operations, were brought in for VR testing. Their tasks involved assessing the Gateway station's suitability for extended habitation and work, including conducting scientific experiments and preparing meals in zero gravity.
NASA has announced that the module will not launch into lunar orbit before 2025, once critical energy and propulsion systems have been tested in outer space. Astronauts assigned to the Artemis-3 mission will be required to spend at least two years at the station, as part of their tasks will include conducting research at the Moon's South Pole. This entails staying approximately 384,000 km away from Earth.
For perspective, astronauts on missions launched since 1998 have not ventured further than 400 km from Earth. The first human spaceflight, Vostok-1, launched in 1961, orbited at an altitude of 320 km.
This ambitious project necessitates a sophisticated training platform; hence, the Metaverse is being utilized to its full potential.
Nicole Mann explores the Gateway in virtual reality. Source: nasa.gov
NASA points out that the shared virtual space, which allows scientists and astronauts to work together on projects in real time, will significantly accelerate the deployment of the physical module.
It remains to be seen whether this Metaverse will be accessible to the public or if typical internet users will eventually be able to take a virtual tour of the International Space Station. However, such possibilities are unlikely to materialize until the space module is successfully orbiting the Moon.
Yet, given NASA's proven ability to generate revenue, there may eventually be opportunities for the public to visit a real (albeit virtual) lunar station.
