It's no longer just for gaming and other personal use. With its inclusion in NASA's Project Sidekick, the Microsoft HoloLens could serve a higher purpose - helping mankind explore the final frontier.
In a statement, NASA announced its collaboration with tech giant Microsoft via Sidekick described as "a new project using commercial technology to empower astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS)."
ISS program director Sam Scimemi called HoloLens and other virtual reality devices as "cutting edge technologies" that could help with future exploration and "provide new capabilities" to astronauts.
"The goal of Sidekick is to enable station crews with assistance when and where they need it."
This is accomplished in one of two ways. As per Engadget, "Remote Expert Mode uses Skype to give someone on the ground a view of exactly what the astronaut is seeing." A ground operator can then provide real-time instructions via annotations in lieu of written and voice guidance currently in use.
On the other hand, Procedure Mode uses the HoloLens' ability to project holograms onto real-world objects the crew is interacting with for reference.
"Not only could this cut down on training time, but it could provide a valuable guide in situations plagued by communication delays."
Before it will deploy in the ISS, the Microsoft HoloLens was first tested by NASA in its Weightless Wonder C9 jet to make sure it functions properly in free-fall.
Check out the video below:
Two units will be delivered to the ISS via a resupply mission to be conducted by SpaceX on June 28. By year's end, NASA said astronauts will begin using HoloLens as part of Sidekick.
Pricing, release date and other details pertaining to the Microsoft HoloLens has yet to be revealed by the Redwood, Wash.-based tech giant. If anything, the mixed reality headset's space mission could generate buzz to keep interest strong in the device ahead of its launch, according to the Wall Street Journal.
