Microsoft and JPL create virtual Mars with HoloLens

NASA is partnering with Microsoft Corporation to allow scientists to interact with the planet Mars in a more personal, hands-on way than by simply watching images on a computer screen. OnSight is a software that creates a three dimensional Mars environment using data from the Curiosity rover. Using a wearable device called Microsoft HoloLens, scientists will be able to walk around in the simulated Martian environment and examine it up close.

Dave Lavery, program executive for the Mars Science Laboratory mission at NASA Headquarters in Washington, explained how it works. “OnSight gives our rover scientists the ability to walk around and explore Mars right from their offices. It fundamentally changes our perception of Mars, and how we understand the Mars environment surrounding the rover.”