Now most people have heard the name of Sir David Attenborough. As one of these people, I have watched so many documentaries with his commentary, and adore the way he presents everything. The Planet Earth series holds a special place in my heart, despite not usually having the patience for a documentary.
Which is why I am especially keen to see him in a new virtual reality experience called Hold the World. This is part of a new effort from the London Natural History Museum, commissioned by Sky VR which will allow VR users to pick up and inspect virtual reality versions of the bones, fossils and goodies that are usually hidden behind the “do not touch” fences or glass walls. When they do, Attenbourough will guide the user and offer insights and explaining the significance about the various objects they interact with.
“I have enjoyed helping people to discover more about the natural world, and Hold The World offers people a unique opportunity: to examine rare objects, some millions of years old, up close,” stated Attenborough in a press release. “It represents an extraordinary new step in how people can explore and experience nature, all from the comfort of their own homes.”
The museum and Sky VR is partnering with content studio Factory42 to create this experience. Sir Michael Dixon, Director of the Natural History Museum, said, “We are always looking for innovative ways to share our collection, and Hold the World offers the chance to explore it as never before.”
He went on to say:
“Objects in the Museum’s collection hold invaluable data about the origins of life, the Earth and our solar system – stories that are key to us understanding how best to protect our future.”
Basically, you get to visit the museum and redefine the experience as you get up close and personal with things you’ve never been allowed to touch. With Attenbro making an appearance as a 3D model inside of Hold the World, you’ll be in good hands..
With that in mind, it’s safe to say virtual reality is slowly making its way into our world, and it’s honestly quite cool. This whole experience is set to be debuted in the London Natural History Museum in the near future.