INVISIBLE UNIVERSE- a shared space VR installation

The search for life elsewhere in the universe is one of the most compelling aspects of modern science. Given its scientific importance, significant resources are devoted to this young science of astrobiology, ranging from rovers on Mars to telescopic observations of planets orbiting other stars. The discovery of an advanced civilization would likely have profound scientific and philosophical implications, but what does the size and mystery of the universe reveal about the expanse of our inner lives? With this VR project, we want to invite visitors into an interactive environment for contemplating the unknowns that exist in the expanse of space and within ourselves as humans.
Upon entering the VR experience, visitors transition into a sparse landscape populated by flowers whose heads are artificial radio telescopes. Here, they are surrounded by undulating waves of electromagnetic frequencies which seem to stretch in all directions into Infinity. These waves pulse slowly, changing color and form as they react to the endless data streams returned from various points of the universe that are being observed by the Charles Allen telescope array. Multiple users exist within the space and can see each other as celestial beings made of light, existing within the ether. An augmented reality application allows outside users a real time view.
A supplemental interactive video installation is projected onto the wall and ceiling, providing an extra layer to be experienced by visitors outside of the virtual reality component.

This project was created as part of ESPRONCEDA INSTITUTE OF ART AND CULTURE'S IMMENSIVA VR/AI residency program 2020 in Barcelona, Spain.

ARTISTS:
KRIS PILCHER
LAUREN MOFFATT
MOHSEN HAZRATI

with assistance from:
BERKELEY SETI RESEARCH CENTER
DR. STEVE CROFT
JULIA DEMARINES
CLAIRE WEBB

Links:
https://www.espronceda.net/
https://seti.berkeley.edu/
https://krispilcher.com
https://www.deptique.net/
http://mohsenhazrati.com/