posted 12-02-2021 05:48 PM               

NASA visitor complex to open immersive 'Gateway' to deep space

Before NASA deploys its Artemis Gateway in orbit around the moon, the space agency will launch a different, but related type of "Gateway" at its Florida spaceport — and everyone is invited to come aboard.

NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has announced "Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex," a new public attraction focused on the present and future of public and private space exploration. Like the lunar Gateway, which will be a waystation for Artemis astronaut crews on their way down to the moon's surface, the terrestrial "Gateway" will act as boarding ramp for Visitor Complex guests to experience modern-day spaceflight and future interstellar destinations.

"Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex" is slated to open in March 2022.

posted 05-27-2022 11:12 AM               

First look inside: NASA visitor complex set to open 'Gateway' to future of space travel

If NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex serves as a theme park for the space set, then its newest attraction is the agency's own take on "Tomorrowland."

"Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex," opening on June 15, invites the public to not just step, but fly into the future of space travel. Unlike the fantasy-based experiences found elsewhere in Florida though, Gateway grounds itself in the real activities of the United States' 21st century multi-user spaceport.

posted 12-08-2023 11:41 AM               

Blue Origin Exhibit at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

On December 8, Blue Origin's first permanent, interactive exhibit will open at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The immersive virtual reality experience features a replica of the New Shepard crew capsule that uses actual data and imagery to authentically mimic the rocket's journey above the Kármán Line, the internationally recognized boundary of space. This educational tool is meant to make the concept of space travel more accessible to the public and inspire a new generation of space enthusiasts.

Additional facts:

• The experience provides users with insights into the New Shepard flight profile, the science and terminology behind rocket launches, and the experience of being on the New Shepard crew.

• The capsule is a near-perfect replica of the New Shepard flight capsule (a few things were slightly enlarged or made smaller to increase accessibility inside the capsule).

• Interactive elements include zero gravity indicators for users to engage with once in space as well as seat shakers driven off mission audio to increase the immersion.

• The capsule includes a handicap-accessible flight seat and VR headset external to the capsule to allow those who can't physically enter the capsule on their own to have the same launch experience.
  
  
• The experience leverages cutting-edge VR technology, including high-resolution graphics and advanced hand and motion tracking, ensuring a deeply immersive experience that's also visually beautiful.

• The development involved close collaboration with scientists, engineers, and producers, ensuring accuracy and a high-quality user experience, combining the best of entertainment with aerospace.