A virtual reality headset has been sent to the International Space Station (ISS) to test its effectiveness in treating the mental health strains experienced by astronauts. The headset comes pre-loaded with natural scenes to provide a sense of relaxation and escape from the sterile environment of the ISS. Astronaut Andreas Mogensen is testing the gadget during his six-month mission.
IMAGINE being stuck in a highly sophisticated, 'sterile and cold' tin can in Earth's orbit, 248 miles above home.
"We astronauts onboard the space station are living in a very confined, artificial, laboratory-like environment, it's very sterile, it's very cold and we don't have access to nature and that affects our psychological wellbeing," explained Mogensen. "When I put on the virtual reality headset, I can hear the rustle through the leaves, I can hear the birds singing, I can almost feel the warmth of the sun," Mogensen describes.
The nifty gadget flew to the ISS along with Crew-7 back in November, and has been going through testing during the six-month mission. "It's so motivating," Mogensen says, adding that "at the same time I feel like I'm out in nature enjoying a nice bike route through the woods, or along the beach."
Virtual Reality Headset Space International Space Station Mental Health Astronauts Relaxation Escape Testing
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
ISS launch: New US-Russian crew heads to space stationThe three men and one woman will conduct scientific experiments, including a study of degenerative diseases.
Read more »
ISS launch: SpaceX rocket blasts US-Russian crew towards space stationThe three men and one woman crew will stay on the International Space Station (ISS) for a six month mission.
Read more »
The history of virtual reality that led to Apple Vision ProApple is turning science fiction into reality but was VR meant to be used like this?
Read more »
Mass. needs more health care workers — can virtual reality help train them?Massachusetts' unemployment rate has fallen to 3%, but there is still high demand for workers in the health care field, especially registered nurses
Read more »