Developing a Virtual Reality simulator for Low Earth Orbit space travel
Agency 39A developed a Virtual Reality (VR) simulator for XCOR Aerospace to simulate the Lynx spaceplane experience, enabling potential investors, educators, and passengers to engage with the flight environment. The VR simulator, created using Unity for the Oculus headset, translated the physical cockpit into an immersive 3D asset, enhancing fundraising and educational outreach. This innovative tool helped XCOR secure strategic partnerships and pre-sell approximately 282 tickets for future Lynx spaceflights. READ MORE
Challenges:
XCOR faced the challenge of preparing its Lynx spaceplane for sub-orbital spaceflights, carrying a pilot and a passenger or payload over 100 kilometers (62 miles). To achieve operational readiness, XCOR planned 20 to 50 test flights, numerous static engine firings, and a series of step-by-step tests including taxi tests, runway hops, and full-up flights.
Solutions:
Traditional simulators are costly, hard to customize, and require users to travel to specific locations. XCOR sought a more accessible simulation to broaden their audience, envisioning an experience that could replicate the cabin and all phases of flight. Traditional marketing materials couldn't capture the wonder and excitement of such a simulator. XCOR engaged Agency39A to develop a virtual reality simulator to captivate investors, educators, partners, and potential passengers. Agency39A employed design thinking, research, strategic planning, user experience design, product design, and front-end development to create innovative solutions. We harnessed emerging technologies, including Mixed Reality and Virtual Reality, to develop a cutting-edge simulator that brought the XCOR experience directly to users, expanding their reach and engagement.
Results:
Our team at Agency39A collaborated closely with the Chief Pilot, XCOR leadership, and end-users to determine that a Virtual Reality Simulator was the ideal solution for creating a realistic and portable simulation experience. We meticulously translated the physical Lynx cockpit into a VR-ready 3D asset, accurately replicating the seating configuration, controls, displays, and canopy. Using Unity, we developed a VR environment for the Oculus headset and conducted thorough testing with our core audience and initial stakeholders. The VR simulator proved to be a powerful fundraising and educational tool. It facilitated the development of strategic partnerships with universities, individual investors, and key partners. Pre-operational missions and events included XCOR Space Expeditions training missions with space simulators and G-Force Fighter Jet flights for ticketholders. Impressively, approximately 282 people pre-purchased tickets for a Lynx ride, showcasing the simulator's success in generating excitement and engagement. This project highlights Agency39A's capability to leverage cutting-edge technology for impactful, real-world applications.
What our clients say
“Working with Agency 39A on the development of our new website was a terrific experience. It is very challenging to find a marketing agency that can design and develop a new website that combines the art and science required in today’s world. Agency 39A did that for us, and while doing so, made the experience enjoyable. Everyone we interacted with was friendly, kind, on-time, and knew their stuff.”
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