Visitors to Aberdeen Science Centre will soon find themselves in the mouth of a shark, on top of a wind turbine, and inside a vein, thanks to the latest virtual reality (VR) technology.
The centre is to introduce VR into its interactive experiences, thanks to support from Mermaid Subsea Services UK, ETZ Ltd and Peterson Energy Logistics.
Following a successful ‘Dragons’ Den’-style investment pitch event held at the centre earlier this year, sponsorship funding has been secured from the three organisations, allowing the centre to proceed with the project to integrate VR into its diverse offerings.
Mermaid, a leading international subsea services company, has come onboard as a silver-level sponsor of the initiative, while ETZ Ltd, a private sector-led and not-for-profit energy transition organisation, and Peterson, an innovative energy logistics and supply chain solutions firm, have both joined as bronze sponsors.
AVC, a communications agency specialising in audio, video, animation and audio-visual solutions, is also providing support as a project partner.
Thanks to the funding secured so far, Aberdeen Science Centre will now purchase 38 VR headsets, which will be used in a variety of activities, workshops and science demonstrations, and can also be taken on the road to be used at the centre’s many outreach programmes and at local events.
Steph McCann, head of fundraising at Aberdeen Science Centre, welcomed the support the project has seen so far, and encouraged any other organisations interested in investing to get in touch.
She said: “We are immensely grateful for the support of Mermaid, ETZ Ltd and Peterson, alongside AVC, which has allowed us to move forward with our plans to enhance our interactive activities and workshops with the addition of VR headsets. With this technology, we can transport our visitors to new worlds where they can explore our solar system, walk around a hydroelectric dam, and journey through the digestive system and so much more.
“Any additional funding secured for the project will be used to increase the impact that the technology will have on the centre’s activities, including more dedicated staff training sessions and further integration with school workshops and community activities.”
She added: “Sponsorship of the project comes with a range of benefits depending on the level of support provided, including branding opportunities, free admission to the centre and the possibility of using the VR headsets at external industry events. So, if you are interested in supporting us to enhance what we can offer to our visitors, please get in touch today.”
Companies working with Aberdeen Science Centre to introduce the technology could also create a bespoke VR experience tailored to a specific industry.
On supporting the VR initiative at Aberdeen Science Centre, Scott Cormack, regional director for Mermaid, said: “All of us who work in the North Sea energy industry share a collective responsibility to inspire and educate the next generation. Having visited the Aberdeen Science Centre numerous times with my own children, I can personally attest to its pivotal role in sparking curiosity and enthusiasm for science and technology. Supporting the delivery of these VR headsets has been an immensely rewarding experience, and I am confident that they will captivate the imaginations of both young minds and adults alike.”
Lauren Braidwood, ETZ Ltd’s Skills Lead said: “We are looking forward to seeing virtual and augmented reality become part of Aberdeen Science Centre’s offerings, enhancing and futureproofing the fantastic work they already do in STEM education. ETZ Ltd is committed to enabling the next generation to join and lead our energy transition, and Aberdeen Science Centre’s work is vital to inspiring and engaging young people across the region in science and technology.”
Sarah Moore, chief executive at Peterson Energy Logistics, said: “We are delighted to support this initiative at Aberdeen Science Centre. We are committed to developing the next generation of digital innovators and initiatives are great for sparking curiosity and building confidence.”
Regarding AVC’s role as a project partner, Keith Robertson, chief commercial officer at AVC, said: “It has been a privilege to collaborate on this project from its inception, and witnessing the realisation of our ideas is very exciting. The integration of VR capabilities within Aberdeen Science Centre will significantly enhance the visitor experience, and we are pleased to contribute to its implementation within the centre.”
Interested parties have until the end of January 2025 to engage with Aberdeen Science Centre regarding investment into the project, which will officially launch during summer next year.
To find out more about supporting VR at Aberdeen Science Centre, please contact Steph McCann at steph.mccann@asc.scot.