Microsoft’s Most Incredible New Tech Is Going To Space Thanks To NASA

on July 2, 2015 at 10:51 am

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NASA will bring two Microsoft HoloLens augmented reality headsets into space in order to strengthen the communications between astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and technicians back on Earth.

With its interactive 3D interface, the HoloLens is expected to be an effective way to replace verbal instructions with holographic illustrations that can overlay directly onto an astronaut’s surroundings. “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 ISS,” emphasized ISS Program Director Sam Scimemi in a statement.

The space agency estimates that after an extended round of testing, astronauts will be able to use the HoloLens by the end of the year.

In another aspect, NASA is planning for its astronauts and engineers to bring the HoloLens down to the world’s only undersea research station, Aquarius, as called as Project Sidekick. “Sidekick is a prime example of an application for which we envisioned HoloLens being used – unlocking new potential for astronauts and giving us all a new perspective on what is possible with holographic computing,” explained HoloLens designer Kipman.