Engaging the Public with Supernova and Supernova Remnant Research Using Virtual Reality
Gilles Ferrand, Don Warren

TL;DR
This paper describes the development and deployment of a virtual reality experience that allows the public to explore supernovae and their remnants, enhancing engagement with astrophysical research.
Contribution
It introduces a novel VR-based public outreach method for astrophysics, detailing practical development and organization insights.
Findings
High public engagement observed during VR event
Effective communication of complex astrophysical phenomena
Practical guidelines for VR outreach implementation
Abstract
On 21 April 2018, the citizens of Wako, Japan, interacted in a novel way with research being carried out at the Astrophysical Big Bang Laboratory (ABBL) at RIKEN. They were able to explore a model of a supernova and its remnant in an immersive three-dimentional format by using virtual reality (VR) technology. In this article, we explain how this experience was developed and delivered to the public, providing practical tips for and reflecting on the successful organisation of an event of this kind.
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Taxonomy
TopicsAstrophysics and Cosmic Phenomena · Radio, Podcasts, and Digital Media
