Science with Impact - Inspiring the next generation of STEMM students through virtual reality

Finding effective ways to communicate science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEMM) research to the public and students in deprived areas can be challenging but is critical for encouraging the uptake of STEMM studies and careers. Professor Nathan Mayne of the University of Exeter, working with local SMEs and funded by The Science and Technology Facilities Council, pioneered the use of virtual reality (VR) in the communication of cutting-edge exoplanet research, developing an innovative and immersive VR Exoplanet Tour. This unique resource has reached a huge worldwide audience; attracting over 12 million views and over 5,000 comments, making it the most viewed science-based VR resource on the entire RUclips platform, while also winning a prestigious Lovie award.
The VR Exoplanet Tour, has since been screened to over 18,000 people through international exhibitions and over 1,000 students across Devon and Cornwall. Feedback indicated that, in response to the VR Tour, 97% of students were inclined towards STEMM based subjects, and &gt50% stated they were inspired to work in science or technology.
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[@wethecurious]

Thanks for the mention! It was great to work with you on this - It's always a pleasure to take our visitors to planets beyond our solar system both through this VR experience and also through our planetarium shows.