Exploring Astronomy with Virtual Reality

I was curious about what options there were available for educators who wanted to utilize VR to teach their students about astronomy in their classrooms. As it turns out, there are many incredible options to choose from, including simulations that actually allow users to physically explore and interact with the International Space Station, and also a vast 3D interactive planetarium that models the universe as accurately as possible.

These two options stuck out to me in particular due to the fact that both come across as engaging and fun games while offering a science-based educational experience. First is Mission: ISS which is available on Quest headsets via the Meta online store. This simulation is notable because it was made with realism in mind, which is most clearly illustrated by the fact that you can opt to navigate the ISS by physically pushing yourself along with the wall-mounted bars for a more authentic feel, and even go on a space walk. There is also the second resource I found called Space Engine which is available on the Valve Index and other PC VR headsets via Steam. This resource is truly incredible because it functions as a huge interactive planetarium where you are quite literally able to explore anything that you can see in space, and even uses procedural generation to allow users the option to explore uncharted areas. Both of these options allow students a hands-on experience with astronomical topics without ever needing to leave the classroom, and would give them a unique and fun educational experience where they could interact with space itself.

For anyone else who is curious like me, space.com has outlined a number of incredible VR space experiences like the ones mentioned above!