ABERDEEN Science Centre is set to introduce VR into its interactive experiences after funding was secured from three organisations.
Visitors will soon find themselves in the mouth of a shark, on top of a wind turbine, and inside a vein, thanks to the latest virtual reality (VR) technology.
The centre is to introduce VR into its interactive experiences, due to support from Mermaid Subsea Services UK, ETZ Ltd and Peterson Energy Logistics.
Following a successful Dragons Den style investment pitch event held at the centre earlier this year, sponsorship funding was secured from the three organisations, allowing the centre to proceed with the project to integrate VR into its diverse offerings.
Mermaid, a leading international subsea services company, has come onboard as a silver-level sponsor of the initiative, while ETZ Ltd, a private sector-led and not-for-profit energy transition organisation, and Peterson, an innovative energy logistics and supply chain solutions firm, have both joined as bronze sponsors.
AVC, a communications agency specialising in audio, video, animation and audio-visual solutions, is also providing support as a project partner.
Aberdeen Science Centre aims to purchase 38 VR headsets, which will be used in a variety of activities, workshops and science demonstrations, and can also be taken on the road to be used at the centre’s many outreach programmes and local events.
Steph McCann, head of fundraising at Aberdeen Science Centre, said: “We are immensely grateful for the support of Mermaid, ETZ Ltd and Peterson, alongside AVC, which has allowed us to move forward with our plans to enhance our interactive activities and workshops with the addition of VR headsets.
“With this technology, we can transport our visitors to new worlds where they can explore our solar system, walk around a hydroelectric dam, and journey through the digestive system and so much more.
“Any additional funding secured for the project will be used to increase the impact that the technology will have on the centre’s activities, including more dedicated staff training sessions and further integration with school workshops and community activities.”
Keith Robertson, chief commercial officer at AVC, said: “It has been a privilege to collaborate on this project from its inception, and witnessing the realisation of our ideas is very exciting.
“The integration of VR capabilities within Aberdeen Science Centre will significantly enhance the visitor experience, and we are pleased to contribute to its implementation within the centre.”
