Step Inside the Orion Capsule: Immersive Space Travel Experience At Space Symposium 2026

Why It Matters

The Orion VR exhibit demonstrates how immersive technology can turn abstract space missions into tangible experiences, strengthening public support and talent pipelines for NASA’s Artemis program.

Key Takeaways

• Orion capsule immersive exhibit draws crowds at Space Symposium.
• Array of Stars built VR experience using Meta Quest 3, iPads, PCs.
• Experience replicates astronaut interactions with instrument panels in real time.
• Victor Glover’s parents tested exhibit, felt like a lunar road trip.
• New engineering integration showcases future public engagement with space missions.

Summary

At the 2026 Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, a new immersive exhibit let visitors step inside NASA’s Orion capsule. Produced by the Canadian creative‑technology studio Array of Stars, the experience combines Meta Quest 3 headsets, iPads and high‑performance PCs to simulate both the exterior and interior of the spacecraft in real time.

The exhibit was designed for technical accuracy and emotional impact. Engineers built a custom integration layer so that the three devices sync instantly, allowing users to manipulate a replica instrument panel just as an astronaut would. The simulation showcases the capsule’s seating configurations, life‑support systems and navigation displays, while surrounding users with a 360‑degree view of a lunar trajectory.

Damian Hadala highlighted the goal of making every visitor feel like part of the mission. A memorable moment came when astronaut Victor Glover’s parents tried the experience, describing it as “a family road trip around the moon.” Their reaction underscored the exhibit’s ability to translate complex spaceflight operations into relatable storytelling.

The project signals a shift toward immersive public outreach for deep‑space programs. By leveraging consumer‑grade VR hardware, NASA and its partners can broaden awareness, inspire future talent and generate stakeholder enthusiasm, potentially influencing funding and commercial interest in upcoming Artemis missions.

Original Description

Guy Norris of Aviation Week explores the immersive Orion space capsule experience, a standout attraction at the Space Symposium in Colorado Springs.

Developed by the Canadian creative technologies studio Array of Stars in collaboration with Lockheed Martin, the display offers a highly detailed and emotionally engaging simulation of space travel aboard the Orion capsule.

The experience combines technical accuracy with storytelling, allowing visitors to explore the capsule's interior and exterior while feeling like part of the Artemis II mission. Notably, Victor Glover's parents participated in the experience, likening it to a family journey around the Moon.

Utilizing advanced technology, including MetaQuest 3 headsets, PCs, and iPads, the display replicates astronaut interactions with the capsule's instrument panels, showcasing innovative engineering and captivating audiences throughout the symposium.