HTC VR Headset to Be Sent to ISS to Improve Astronaut Mental Health in Lengthy Space Mission

Danish astronaut Andreas Mogensen is set to receive an HTC Vive Focus 3 virtual reality (VR) headset as part of a resupply mission to the International Space Station (ISS). This delivery is part of an initiative to support the mental well-being of astronauts working in space.

HTC VIVE, in collaboration with XRHealth and Nord-Space Aps, aims to provide astronauts with mental relaxation and escape from the confines of their challenging space environment.

HTC Vive Focus 3 VR to Offer a Virtual Respite in Space

While space is often associated with tranquility, the reality is far more demanding. Astronauts contend with isolation, confined living quarters, and constant noise from machinery.

The VR-based therapy on the HTC VIVE Focus 3 is designed to offer astronauts a respite from these stressors. HTC VIVE addressed the challenges of adapting VR technology for microgravity environments since traditional VR headsets rely on gravity vectors for orientation, a factor absent in space.

The company explains that the absence of gravity causes instability and drift in the headset, potentially leading to motion sickness. HTC VIVE resolved this by developing a unique tracking methodology that utilized a controller as a reference point, effectively compensating for the absence of gravitational forces.

Power management on board the ISS was another critical consideration. HTC VIVE conducted extensive testing to ensure a consistent and reliable power source, ultimately utilizing the ISS's power infrastructure for the mission.

Immersive 360° Videos for VR Therapy

Mogensen, the commander of Expedition 70 on the ISS, personally selected immersive 360° videos for the VR therapy, featuring scenes aimed at relaxation and meditation. These include experiences like swimming with dolphins, watching sunsets, listening to birdsongs, sitting by the North Sea, and other scenic sights.

While this marks the first deployment of a HTC VIVE Focus 3 in space, it has already found application in astronaut training on Earth. NASA specialists, including Mogensen, used VIVE Pro 2 and VIVE Trackers to simulate emergency spacewalk situations, demonstrating the versatility and effectiveness of VR technology in astronaut training.

"We're hugely proud of everyone involved in this project aboard the International Space Station. From our own R&D team, through to our friends at Nord-Space Aps, XRHealth, the European Space Agency, NASA, and many more," HTC VIVE wrote in a blog post.

"As HTC VIVE looks ahead, the journey continues to push the boundaries of what is possible for humanity with the support of technology. HTC VIVE's work on this project is a testament to the power of innovation, determination, collaboration with partners, and the belief that technology can shape a better future," it added.