A new interactive VR space experience by the Smithsonian is coming to Manchester
Working in partnership with the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, a new immersive space experience is being brought to life by virtual reality (VR), and it’s coming to Manchester.
You won’t find many other things like this in the entire UK, let alone the North West.
Developed in collaboration with the world-renowned Observatory (SAO) itself, next month, our city is set to take people on a ‘journey through the cosmos’ like never before.
Having already stunned crowds down in London, the ‘Smithsonian Starstruck: An Immersive Experience’ is coming to Manchester for the very first time; here’s a quick glimpse…
Popping up in an otherwise unsuspecting corner of the Northern Quarter, the Smithsonian’s Starstruck exhibition and interactive display is a must-not-miss this August.
Allowing visitors to travel far beyond Earth through the medium of VR goggles, you’ll be able to explore distant galaxies, witness the life cycle of stars, and witness everything from exoplanets, burning suns, even black holes up close and personal.
It’s also worth noting that this has been brought to life using real astronomical data and with help from experts working at the leading science, astronomy and astrophysics centre.
During the experience, Mancs will be transported via the power of humanity’s famous observatories, including the Hubble Space Telescope, the James Webb, the Chandra X‑ray and more, allowing them to not just see and hear but almost feel these far-flung phenomena like never before.
Besides visiting these various state-of-the-art institutions individually, there’s virtually no other exhibit that offers this kind of access – pardon the pun.
Presented by the award-winning and increasingly popular Fever Events, each VR session is set to last roughly 40 minutes, serving as a great family day out, couples date, or solo experience; and trust us, you’re bound to get lost in time AND space. Ok, that pun we definitely meant.
Speaking ahead of its arrival, Fever’s Global Director of Production, Alex Winterbottom, said in a statement: “We’re proud to have developed this new immersive experience in collaboration with the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO), the largest astrophysics research centre on the planet.
“This partnership has enabled us to ensure scientific accuracy down to the smallest detail to make the observatory’s incredible research within reach to audiences in Manchester.
“Bringing Starstruck to the Science Museum highlights the project’s ability to educate and engage visitors of all ages, from children to adults, while remaining highly entertaining.”
Starstruck by the Smithsonian lands at Transmission House on Tib Street on Thursday, 6 August, and with tickets starting from just £10.50 for children, students and over 60s, it’s a no-brainer.
Grab yours now while you can right HERE and check out the latest trailer down below.
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Featured Images — Publicity pictures (supplied via Fever/We Are Indigo PR)