School exams are ending and instead of making plans for the family abroad, why not plan to take them out of this world? Make your way down to the Science Centre Singapore from Saturday, 12 October 2024 where Space Explorers: THE INFINITE will be making its Southeast Asian debut.
As the world’s largest extended reality or XR space exploration exhibit, Space Explorers: THE INFINITE guarantees to be both an out-of-body and out-of-this world experience. We had the opportunity to get a sneak peek into this novel mode of travel where you can take to the launch pad at Science Centre Singapore.
Space Explorers: THE INFINITE at Science Centre Singapore
Growing up in brightly lit Singapore even till nightfall, outer space is a concept that is hardly mentioned, less the occasional supermoon or comet sighting. I have always wondered what it is like to be out there in space and what astronauts do for a living. As I stepped into the Annexe at Science Centre Singapore, I was in for a real treat.
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As I walked by television screens replaying the cosmic efforts astronauts undertook to prepare for space exploration, it dawned on me that this is indeed an experience of a lifetime.
Nothing beats being in-person, and the closest a layman can get to being in outer space is through Space Explorers: THE INFINITE, which has cleverly intertwined both technical mastery and poignant contemplation to create a walkable masterpiece. My heart was racing as I felt the need to ready myself for this adventure of walking into space.
After a safety briefing and upon donning an Oculus Quest 2 VR headset, be prepared to launch out into an extraordinary journey through space 400 km above Earth through an hour-long immersive experience consisting of three segments: ‘Exploring the Daily Life of Astronauts’, ‘A Journey Through Space’, and lastly, ‘A Glimpse into the Future’.
Donning the VR headset was easy with some guidance from crew members and the weight of the headset was relieved once it was adjusted to fit my head.
Just a note that due to manufacturer’s recommendations, participants are required to be 9 years old and above.
Eyeglasses are allowed but I would highly recommend wearing contact lenses instead as it is more comfortable and allows you to be one with your VR headset.
There are also lockers to store your belongings before entry so as not to restrict your movement as you venture further into space. With gear on, let’s explore the 3 shifts in scenes throughout the exhibition.
Exploring the Daily Life of Astronauts
Touring the International Space Station (ISS) from within and without was done with ease as participants walk around a large pillarless space. I was glad I could avoid colliding with fellow honorary astronauts as they appeared as cosmic avatars with yellow orbs in my headset. The journey is also outfitted with ramps throughout to ensure a smooth and safe walk through space (pun intended).
Upon touching spheres spread around the ISS, it prompted my VR vision to transit to one of many 3D-360° scenes filmed over 250 hours of astronauts going about their daily routine.
Some featured them conducting cutting-edge scientific research and other footage showed similar things to what we would do on earth, such as taking group photos and having meals. Yet in this case, on the largest manmade structure in space.
The most relatable scene for me was witnessing a group of astronauts from diverse nationalities having a group hug in zero gravity, causing them to laugh as they did a somersault together.
A Journey through Space
After venturing in and out of the ISS, the VR headset prompts participants to follow a lit door frame through which I was shepherded to my allocated seat from which my spacewalk would commence.
This otherworldly experience allowed me to witness breathtaking views of Earth and feel the vast expanse of space.
I was blown away by the grandeur of the sunrise on Earth’s horizon while from this new perspective, all while staring in awe at the hard work these astronauts need to do outside the ISS while donned in heavy spacesuits.
Carefully woven into this immersive encounter was more than 16 hours’ worth of video diaries of astronauts on their NASA mission stint. Being in their midst up-close made me realise the high level of aptitude and resilience required of these space personnel, considering the risks and difficulty of tasks in a foreign environment like space. It caused me to better appreciate their work and how what they do sustains life here on earth more than we think.
A Glimpse into the Future
As I approached the final chapter, I couldn’t help but feel a tinge of sadness as my time in space was coming to an end. That didn’t last long as I was transported once again into another era – the future of space exploration with the launch of NASA’s Artemis rocket on large screens. Having front row seats to this mission of bringing mankind closer to the moon and Mars promises to be both thrilling and awe-inspiring.
Can’t bear to leave this space after the experience? How about shopping for memorabilia such as freeze-dried ice cream which astronauts eat at the merchandise store prior to exiting the Annexe!
Experiencing Space Explorers: THE INFINITE at Science Centre Singapore
I cannot recommend Space Explorers: THE INFINITE enough and if I had the choice to rate it, it would be worth countless of stars. I attribute my high rating to the friendly layout of the exhibit and the attentiveness of the staff. Don’t hesitate to come by with your loved ones and be prepared to have your socks knocked off!
When: 12 October 2024 to 24 March 2025
Where: Annexe Hall 2 & 3, Science Centre Singapore
Opening Hours: Peak (Weekends, School Holidays, Public Holidays): 10 am to 8 pm; Non-Peak (Weekdays): 10 am to 5 pm
Age Requirement: 9+ (Children between 9 and 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult)
How Much: $33 to $42 per person
Get more details and tickets to Space Explorers: THE INFINITE.
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