HoloLens to be used on the International Space Station

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Today NASA revealed that they will be taking on Microsoft’s HoloLens headset, for use on the International Space Station. Two of the headsets are currently being experimented with, and will be sent up to the station to help astronauts with training. They are set to be sent up this weekend, via a SpaceX resupply. This will make it possible to assist and support those on the station from back on Earth.

Sam Scimemi, director of the ISS program at NASA Headquarters explains:

“HoloLens and other virtual and mixed reality devices are cutting edge technologies that could help drive future exploration and provide new capabilities to the men and women conducting critical science on the International Space Station. This new technology could also empower future explorers requiring greater autonomy on the journey to Mars.”

They will be using an application called Sidekick, which has two main features. ‘Remote Expert’ is an mode where crew members can contact those on the ground via Skype, and the crew member’s live point of view will be transmitted to Earth. Those on the ground can then draw and annotate straight onto the HoloLens visor. ‘Procedure Mode’ allows animated holographic assets and drawings to be placed into the users vision, therefore less training is required before leaving for the ISS.

Currently HoloLens is not a final product; therefore this is simply a testing phase. This will be used to test practicality and software, before an updated model is available in the future. It is interesting to see HoloLens being used in a true scientific scenario, which has not been shown prior. It is obvious Microsoft were planning to work close with NASA, after the brief appearance at the HoloLens reveal, showing a virtual map of Mars’ surface and showcasing the OnSight technology.

Check out the brief preview below:

Source: NASA

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