Virtual reality experiences bring aquarium audiences closer to nature, without captivity
Using the latest technology, Immotion and the Bimini Shark Lab were able to tag different types of sharks with a small, virtual-reality camera. This first-of-its-kind video footage provides a unique perspective on how sharks move through the water.
After capturing the footage, Immotion was able to program the motion pods in which viewers sit to accurately represent the motion experienced in the field. The pod movements help viewers understand how a shark moves, including how hammerheads are required to continually move their head from side to side to eliminate a large blind spot in front of them.
Speaking about the new experience, Immotion Group's commercial director, Rod Findley, explained, “using VR technology to study the movement and behavior of these sharks can play a crucial part in educating people to gain a better understanding of the species, and the vital role they play in preserving the marine ecosystem.”
One of the first aquariums to bring in the new experiences is Sarasota’s Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, where eight of Immotion’s experiences are offered. The Gulf Coast aquarium is in the midst of a multi-year plan to build one of Florida’s largest aquariums, and is committed to using "interactive, advanced, digital, and augmented reality technology" throughout the $130 million new Mote Science Education Aquarium.
See the full story here: https://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2019/12/11/virtual-reality-experiences-bring-aquarium-audiences-closer-to-nature-without-captivity