Aberdeen Science Centre’s VR Project Hits a Turning Point
Thanks to state-of-the-art virtual reality (VR) technology, attendees at the Aberdeen Science Centre are going to be able to go on immersive experiences that include stepping atop a windmill, travelling through blood veins, and experiencing the inner workings of a shark’s jaws.
Mermaid Subsea Services UK, ETZ Ltd, and Peterson Energy Logistics have generously contributed to this creative VR integration. Following an effective investment proposal session earlier this year, which resulted in sponsorship support from all three of these businesses, the initiative gathered pace.
Peterson, an expert in energy logistics and supply chain solutions, and ETZ Ltd, a non-profit sustainable energy organisation, have agreed to serve as bronze sponsors, whilst Mermaid, a world authority in subsea offerings, is acting as a silver-level partner. AVC, a communications firm with a reputation for proficiency in animation, footage, and sounds, is also participating as a project collaborator.
The financing would make it possible to buy 38 virtual reality headsets, which will improve outreach initiatives, scientific displays, and seminars. In order to increase their influence outside of the core, these headsets will be used not just there but also in neighbourhood gatherings.
The director of funding at Aberdeen Science Centre, Steph McCann, thanked everyone for the significant contribution and urged further funding. The virtual reality (VR) experience will take viewers to new places, like walking inside electricity dams, studying the cosmos, and traversing through the human gastrointestinal system, McCann said. To optimise the effect of the technology, more funds will be allocated for outreach to the public, education initiatives, and employee education.
Benefits of sponsorship include free centre entry, branding possibilities, and the possibility of using VR headsets at outside industry events. Additionally, businesses may work with the facility to create custom VR experiences for particular sectors.
Mermaid’s regional director, Scott Cormack, underlined the industry’s need to motivate the next generations. Cormack expressed optimism that the VR project will enthral visitors of any age and emphasised the facility’s vital role in encouraging an appreciation of technological advances and science.
The use of virtual and augmented reality was hailed by Lauren Braidwood, Skills Lead at ETZ Ltd., who described it as a step towards future-proofing STEM education. In addition to highlighting the centre’s critical role in involving young minds around the area, Braidwood reaffirmed ETZ Ltd.’s dedication to preparing future leaders to spearhead the energy transformation.
Similar opinions were expressed by Sarah Moore, CEO of Peterson Energy Logistics, who emphasised the initiative’s capacity to motivate upcoming digital innovators. Moore underlined the significance of using such programs to pique interest and boost the self-esteem of the future era.
AVC’s Chief Commercial Officer, Keith Robertson, said the company was proud to work with the facility. He emphasised being happy to see the idea come to life and highlighted the revolutionary influence virtual reality would have on tourist experiences.
Until the end of January 2025, companies interested in funding the research may get in touch with Aberdeen Science Centre. Launched in the summer of 2025, the project promises to transform the centre’s services and solidify its position as a pioneer in STEM innovation and education.
