NASA
NASA Tests Mixed Reality Pilot Simulation in Vertical Motion Simulator
Commercial companies and government agencies are increasingly pursuing a more immersive and affordable alternative to conventional displays currently used in flight simulators. A NASA research project is working on ways to make this technology available for use faster.
Mixed reality systems where users interact with physical simulators while wearing virtual reality headsets offer a promising path forward for pilot training. But currently, only limited standards exist for allowing their use, as regulators have little to no data on how these systems perform. To address this, NASA’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley invited a dozen pilots to participate in a study to test how a mixed-reality flight simulation would perform in the world’s largest flight simulator.
“For the first time, we’re collecting real data on how this type of mixed reality simulation performs in the highest-fidelity vertical motion simulator,” said Peter Zaal, a principal systems architect at Ames. “The more we understand about how these systems affect pilot performance, the closer we are to providing a safer, cost-effective training tool to the aviation community that could benefit everyone from commercial airlines to future air taxi operators.”
A National Test Pilot student observes the mixed-reality pilot simulation in the VMS at Ames on May 30, 2025.NASA/Brandon Torres-NavarreteMixed reality blends physical and digital worlds, allowing users to see physical items while viewing a desired simulated environment. Flight simulators employing this technology through headset or a similar setup could offer pilots training for operating next-generation aircraft at a reduced cost and within a smaller footprint compared to more traditional flight simulators. This is because pilots could rely more heavily on the visuals provided through the headset instead of large embedded visual displays in a physical motion simulator.
During the testing – which ran May 23-30 – pilots donned a headset through which they could see the physical displays and control sticks inside the Vertical Motion Simulator (VMS) cab along with a virtual cockpit overlay of an electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle through the head-mounted display. When the pilots looked toward their windscreens, they saw a virtual view of San Francisco and the surrounding area.
Pilots performed three typical flight maneuvers under four sets of motion conditions. Afterward, they were asked to provide feedback on their level of motion sickness while using the head-mounted display and how well the simulator replicated the same movements the aircraft would make during a real flight.
An initial analysis of the study shows pilots reported lower ratings of motion sickness than NASA researchers expected. Many shared that the mixed-reality setup inside the VMS felt more realistic and fluid than previous simulator setups they had tested.
As part of the test, Ames hosted members of the Federal Aviation Administration Civil Aerospace Medical Institute, which studies factors that influence human performance in aerospace. Pilots from the National Test Pilot School attended a portion of the testing and, independent from the study, evaluated the head-mounted display’s “usable cue environment,” or representation of the visual cues pilots rely on to control an aircraft.
Peter Zaal (right), observes as Samuel Ortho (middle) speaks with a National Test Pilot student during the mixed reality pilot simulation in the Vertical Motion Simulator at Ames on May 30, 2025.NASA will make the test results available to the public and the aviation community early next year. This first-of-its-kind testing – funded by an Ames Innovation Fair Grant and managed by the center’s Aviation Systems Division – paves the way for potential use of this technology in the VMS for future aviation and space missions.
NASA Tests Mixed Reality Pilot Simulation in Vertical Motion Simulator
Commercial companies and government agencies are increasingly pursuing a more immersive and affordable alternative to conventional displays currently used in flight simulators. A NASA research project is working on ways to make this technology available for use faster.
Mixed reality systems where users interact with physical simulators while wearing virtual reality headsets offer a promising path forward for pilot training. But currently, only limited standards exist for allowing their use, as regulators have little to no data on how these systems perform. To address this, NASA’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley invited a dozen pilots to participate in a study to test how a mixed-reality flight simulation would perform in the world’s largest flight simulator.
“For the first time, we’re collecting real data on how this type of mixed reality simulation performs in the highest-fidelity vertical motion simulator,” said Peter Zaal, a principal systems architect at Ames. “The more we understand about how these systems affect pilot performance, the closer we are to providing a safer, cost-effective training tool to the aviation community that could benefit everyone from commercial airlines to future air taxi operators.”
A National Test Pilot student observes the mixed-reality pilot simulation in the VMS at Ames on May 30, 2025.NASA/Brandon Torres-NavarreteMixed reality blends physical and digital worlds, allowing users to see physical items while viewing a desired simulated environment. Flight simulators employing this technology through headset or a similar setup could offer pilots training for operating next-generation aircraft at a reduced cost and within a smaller footprint compared to more traditional flight simulators. This is because pilots could rely more heavily on the visuals provided through the headset instead of large embedded visual displays in a physical motion simulator.
During the testing – which ran May 23-30 – pilots donned a headset through which they could see the physical displays and control sticks inside the Vertical Motion Simulator (VMS) cab along with a virtual cockpit overlay of an electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle through the head-mounted display. When the pilots looked toward their windscreens, they saw a virtual view of San Francisco and the surrounding area.
Pilots performed three typical flight maneuvers under four sets of motion conditions. Afterward, they were asked to provide feedback on their level of motion sickness while using the head-mounted display and how well the simulator replicated the same movements the aircraft would make during a real flight.
An initial analysis of the study shows pilots reported lower ratings of motion sickness than NASA researchers expected. Many shared that the mixed-reality setup inside the VMS felt more realistic and fluid than previous simulator setups they had tested.
As part of the test, Ames hosted members of the Federal Aviation Administration Civil Aerospace Medical Institute, which studies factors that influence human performance in aerospace. Pilots from the National Test Pilot School attended a portion of the testing and, independent from the study, evaluated the head-mounted display’s “usable cue environment,” or representation of the visual cues pilots rely on to control an aircraft.
Peter Zaal (right), observes as Samuel Ortho (middle) speaks with a National Test Pilot student during the mixed reality pilot simulation in the Vertical Motion Simulator at Ames on May 30, 2025.NASA will make the test results available to the public and the aviation community early next year. This first-of-its-kind testing – funded by an Ames Innovation Fair Grant and managed by the center’s Aviation Systems Division – paves the way for potential use of this technology in the VMS for future aviation and space missions.
NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim, Axiom Mission 4 Commander Peggy Whitson Conduct Research in Space
NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim, Axiom Mission 4 Commander Peggy Whitson Conduct Research in Space
In this photo from June 28, 2025, Expedition 73 flight engineer Jonny Kim and former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space Peggy Whitson work together inside the International Space Station’s Destiny laboratory module setting up hardware for cancer research.
The hardware is used to culture patient-derived cancer cells, model their growth in microgravity, and test a state-of-the-art fluorescence microscope. Results of this study may lead to earlier cancer detection methods, development of advanced cancer treatments, and promote future stem cell research in space.
Whitson returned to Earth on July 15, 2025, with fellow Axiom Mission 4 crew members ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland, and Hungarian to Orbit (HUNOR) astronaut Tibor Kapu of Hungary. They completed about two and a half weeks in space.
Image credit: JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency)/Takuya Onishi
NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim, Axiom Mission 4 Commander Peggy Whitson Conduct Research in Space
In this photo from June 28, 2025, Expedition 73 flight engineer Jonny Kim and former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space Peggy Whitson work together inside the International Space Station’s Destiny laboratory module setting up hardware for cancer research.
The hardware is used to culture patient-derived cancer cells, model their growth in microgravity, and test a state-of-the-art fluorescence microscope. Results of this study may lead to earlier cancer detection methods, development of advanced cancer treatments, and promote future stem cell research in space.
Whitson returned to Earth on July 15, 2025, with fellow Axiom Mission 4 crew members ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland, and Hungarian to Orbit (HUNOR) astronaut Tibor Kapu of Hungary. They completed about two and a half weeks in space.
Image credit: JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency)/Takuya Onishi
Radio JOVE Volunteers Tune In to the Sun’s Low Notes
As the Sun approaches the most active part of its eleven-year magnetic cycle this summer, NASA volunteers have been watching it closely. Now they’ve spotted a new trend in solar behavior that will have you reaching for your suntan lotion. It’s all about something called a “Type II” solar radio burst:
“Type II solar radio bursts are not commonly detected in the frequency range between 15 to 30 megahertz,” said Prof. Chuck Higgins, Co-founder of Radio JOVE. “Recently, we’re seeing many of them in that range.”
Let’s unpack that. Our Sun often sprays powerful blasts of radio waves into space. Heliophysicists classify these radio bursts into five different types depending on how the frequency of the radio waves drifts over time. “Type II” solar radio bursts seem to come from solar flares and enormous squirts of hot plasma called coronal mass ejections.
Now, Thomas Freeman, an undergraduate student at Middle Tennessee State University, and other volunteers working on NASA’s Radio JOVE project have observed something interesting about these Type II bursts: they are now showing up at lower frequencies—somewhere in between FM and AM radio.
What does it mean? It means our star is full of surprises! These Radio JOVE observations of the Sun’s radio emissions during solar maximum can be used to extend our knowledge of solar emissions to lower frequencies and, therefore, to distances farther from the Sun.
Radio JOVE is a NASA partner citizen science project in which participants assemble and operate radio astronomy telescopes to gather and contribute data to support scientific studies. Radio JOVE collaborated with SunRISE Ground Radio Lab, organized teams of high school students to observe the Sun, and recently published a paper on these Type II solar radio bursts. Learn more and get involved!
A Type II solar radio burst on April 23rd, 2024, seen as the gently sloping yellow band drifting from 17:49 to 18:02 UTC in the 15-30 MHz radio frequency-time spectrogram. Credit: Tom Ashcraft, Lamy, NM Share Details Last Updated Jul 23, 2025 Related Terms Explore More 2 min read Bring NASA Science into Your Library!Article
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Radio JOVE Volunteers Tune In to the Sun’s Low Notes
As the Sun approaches the most active part of its eleven-year magnetic cycle this summer, NASA volunteers have been watching it closely. Now they’ve spotted a new trend in solar behavior that will have you reaching for your suntan lotion. It’s all about something called a “Type II” solar radio burst:
“Type II solar radio bursts are not commonly detected in the frequency range between 15 to 30 megahertz,” said Prof. Chuck Higgins, Co-founder of Radio JOVE. “Recently, we’re seeing many of them in that range.”
Let’s unpack that. Our Sun often sprays powerful blasts of radio waves into space. Heliophysicists classify these radio bursts into five different types depending on how the frequency of the radio waves drifts over time. “Type II” solar radio bursts seem to come from solar flares and enormous squirts of hot plasma called coronal mass ejections.
Now, Thomas Freeman, an undergraduate student at Middle Tennessee State University, and other volunteers working on NASA’s Radio JOVE project have observed something interesting about these Type II bursts: they are now showing up at lower frequencies—somewhere in between FM and AM radio.
What does it mean? It means our star is full of surprises! These Radio JOVE observations of the Sun’s radio emissions during solar maximum can be used to extend our knowledge of solar emissions to lower frequencies and, therefore, to distances farther from the Sun.
Radio JOVE is a NASA partner citizen science project in which participants assemble and operate radio astronomy telescopes to gather and contribute data to support scientific studies. Radio JOVE collaborated with SunRISE Ground Radio Lab, organized teams of high school students to observe the Sun, and recently published a paper on these Type II solar radio bursts. Learn more and get involved!
A Type II solar radio burst on April 23rd, 2024, seen as the gently sloping yellow band drifting from 17:49 to 18:02 UTC in the 15-30 MHz radio frequency-time spectrogram. Credit: Tom Ashcraft, Lamy, NM Share Details Last Updated Jul 23, 2025 Related Terms Explore More 2 min read Bring NASA Science into Your Library!Article
2 days ago
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July will see the launch of the groundbreaking Solar EruptioN Integral Field Spectrograph mission, or…
Article
6 days ago
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NASA Seeks Industry Concepts on Moon, Mars Communications
NASA is seeking proposals from U.S. companies about innovative Moon and Mars proximity relay communication and navigation capabilities as the agency aims to use private industry satellite communications services for emerging missions.
On July 7, NASA issued a Request for Proposals, soliciting advanced industry concepts to establish high-bandwidth, high-reliability communications infrastructure between the lunar surface and an Earth-based operations control center, along with concepts that establish a critical communications relay on the Martian surface and transfer data between Mars and the Earth.
“These partnerships foster important advancements in communications and navigation,” said Greg Heckler, deputy program manager for capability development within NASA’s SCaN (Space Communications and Navigation) Program. “It allows our astronauts, our rovers, our spacecraft – all NASA missions – to expand humanity’s exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond.”
NASA’s request directly supports the agency’s long-term vision of an interoperable space communication and navigation infrastructure that enables science, exploration, and economic development in space. NASA, as one of many customers, will establish a marketplace that supports cost-effective commercial services involving communication needs on and around the Moon and Mars.
Responses are due by 5 p.m. EDT, Wednesday, Aug. 13.
NASA’s SCaN Program serves as the management office for the agency’s space communications and navigation. More than 100 NASA and non-NASA missions rely on SCaN’s two networks, the Near Space Network and the Deep Space Network, to support astronauts aboard the International Space Station and future Artemis missions, monitor Earth’s weather, support lunar exploration, and uncover the solar system and beyond.
Learn more about NASA’s SCaN Program at:
News Media Contact:
Claire O’Shea
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-1100
claire.a.o’shea@nasa.gov
NASA Seeks Industry Concepts on Moon, Mars Communications
NASA is seeking proposals from U.S. companies about innovative Moon and Mars proximity relay communication and navigation capabilities as the agency aims to use private industry satellite communications services for emerging missions.
On July 7, NASA issued a Request for Proposals, soliciting advanced industry concepts to establish high-bandwidth, high-reliability communications infrastructure between the lunar surface and an Earth-based operations control center, along with concepts that establish a critical communications relay on the Martian surface and transfer data between Mars and the Earth.
“These partnerships foster important advancements in communications and navigation,” said Greg Heckler, deputy program manager for capability development within NASA’s SCaN (Space Communications and Navigation) Program. “It allows our astronauts, our rovers, our spacecraft – all NASA missions – to expand humanity’s exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond.”
NASA’s request directly supports the agency’s long-term vision of an interoperable space communication and navigation infrastructure that enables science, exploration, and economic development in space. NASA, as one of many customers, will establish a marketplace that supports cost-effective commercial services involving communication needs on and around the Moon and Mars.
Responses are due by 5 p.m. EDT, Wednesday, Aug. 13.
NASA’s SCaN Program serves as the management office for the agency’s space communications and navigation. More than 100 NASA and non-NASA missions rely on SCaN’s two networks, the Near Space Network and the Deep Space Network, to support astronauts aboard the International Space Station and future Artemis missions, monitor Earth’s weather, support lunar exploration, and uncover the solar system and beyond.
Learn more about NASA’s SCaN Program at:
News Media Contact:
Claire O’Shea
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-1100
claire.a.o’shea@nasa.gov
GRUVE Lab
The GRUVE (Glenn Reconfigurable User-Interface and Virtual Reality Exploration) Lab is located within the GVIS Lab. It is home to the CAVE, which is predominantly used for mission scenarios and to tour virtual environments of NASA facilities.
GRUVE Lab VisualizationUsers virtually explore a facility at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.NASA GRUVE Lab DemonstrationA user analyzes a visualization of a prototype structure.NASA GRUVE Lab VisualizationA user analyzes a visualization of a prototype structure that will be used for a fire experiment on the Moon.NASA GRUVE Lab VisualizationA Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) intern in the Cave Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE).NASA GRUVE Lab TourA user takes a virtual tour of a facility at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.NASA How GRUVE WorksGRUVE allows multiple people to view a visualization in 3D together. These visualizations include 3D models of NASA facilities and intricate images created from collected data.
Powerful projectors and mirrors, in combination with an infrared motion tracking system and active-shutter glasses, allow viewers to view 3D models and data in perfect perspective. 3D models effectively pop off the screen and remain proportional no matter where the user with the pair of tracking glasses moves in the environment.
The CAVE can be driven by either a Windows or Linux computer system, enabling the team to use the best environment for a given problem and software tool.
The CAVE setup immerses the user in 3D visualizations through walls on all sides, projectors from above, tracking cameras, and mirrors hidden behind the facade.Visbox, Inc. Benefits of GRUVEThe CAVE’s technology provides a unique advantage for researchers, scientists, engineers, and others. Seeing and analyzing forces and data that would otherwise not be viewable to the human eye allows the observer to understand their subject matter in more detail.
Benefits of GRUVE to research include:
- Providing an immersive environment: with large screens to fill peripheral vision and stereoscopic projection for a real sense of three-dimensional space, more parts of the brain are engaged, and the user is better able to understand problems and solve them faster
- More effective collaboration: the ability to see each other in the virtual reality environment makes GRUVE better for collaboration than traditional VR technology
- Seeing complex data and flows in 3D: this makes it easier for both experts and non-experts to understand the data
- Providing greater resolution and larger display size: this allows details to be displayed without losing their context
- Delivering faster and more accurate manipulation and viewing of models, including CAD data, with fewer errors: this results in a faster time to market and less re-work
All members of NASA Glenn may use GRUVE for their projects.
Applications of Immersive 3D Environments- Fluid dynamics analysis (CFD)
- Point cloud data, e.g., LiDAR
- Virtual design reviews
- Virtual manufacturing testing
- Computer Aided Design (CAD)
- 3D imaging data
- Training and education
- Virtual procedures
- Biomedical research
- Molecular dynamics
- Virtual building walkthroughs
- Showroom “theater”
- Education and outreach
- Building Information Management (BIM)
- Big data and data mining
- Cybersecurity data analysis
- Safety systems analysis
- Microfocus CT scan data
- Electron microscopy
- 3D photos and videos
- Point cloud data
- Volume data
- Computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
- Computer Aided Design (CAD)
- Molecular dynamics
- Linux CAVE node
- Windows 10 CAVE node
- CAVE wall
- Stereo glasses
- Audio system
- Tracking system
- Wand
- The Windows node attached to the GRUVE Lab runs middleware software, which enables Unity-developed applications to run in the CAVE. This greatly expands the number of VR applications that can be run.
- Vrui VR Toolkit-based applications such as LiDAR viewer and 3D visualizer
- VMD – Visual Molecular Dynamics
- ParaView
- COVISE– Collaborative Visualization and Simulation Environment
The GVIS Lab maintains a large collection of computing, visualization, and user interaction devices including:
- Virtual reality display devices
- Head-mounted displays
- Room-scale CAVE
- Augmented reality head-mounted displays
- 3D displays
- Psuedo-3D displays
- Pepper’s Ghost display
- Persistence of Vision (POV) LED display
- Light field technology- based displays
- Projection devices for projected AR
- Natural user interface devices
- Hand gesture recognition devices
- Motion capture devices
- Cameras for mixed reality
- Computing hardware
- High-end laptops
- High-end desktops
- High-end tablets and smartphones
- Cameras
- Stereo 3D camera
- 180/360 camera
- Flight simulators
- 3D printers
All these devices are available for employees to try and test for possible application to their work.
A Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) intern in the Cave Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE).NASA Contact UsNeed to reach us? You can send an email directly to the GVIS Team (GRC-DL-GVIS@mail.nasa.gov) or to the team leader, Herb Schilling (hschilling@nasa.gov).
Share Details Last Updated Jul 23, 2025 LocationGlenn Research Center Related Terms Explore More 5 min read NASA Advances Pressure Sensitive Paint Research Capability Article 3 weeks ago 1 min read Gateway Space Station in 3D Article 11 months ago 5 min read Augmented Reality Speeds Spacecraft Construction at NASA Goddard Article 1 year ago Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASAWant to Go on a Simulated Mission to the Moon?
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GRUVE Lab
The GRUVE (Glenn Reconfigurable User-Interface and Virtual Reality Exploration) Lab is located within the GVIS Lab. It is home to the CAVE, which is predominantly used for mission scenarios and to tour virtual environments of NASA facilities.
GRUVE Lab VisualizationUsers virtually explore a facility at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.NASA GRUVE Lab DemonstrationA user analyzes a visualization of a prototype structure.NASA GRUVE Lab VisualizationA user analyzes a visualization of a prototype structure that will be used for a fire experiment on the Moon.NASA GRUVE Lab VisualizationA Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) intern in the Cave Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE).NASA GRUVE Lab TourA user takes a virtual tour of a facility at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.NASA How GRUVE WorksGRUVE allows multiple people to view a visualization in 3D together. These visualizations include 3D models of NASA facilities and intricate images created from collected data.
Powerful projectors and mirrors, in combination with an infrared motion tracking system and active-shutter glasses, allow viewers to view 3D models and data in perfect perspective. 3D models effectively pop off the screen and remain proportional no matter where the user with the pair of tracking glasses moves in the environment.
The CAVE can be driven by either a Windows or Linux computer system, enabling the team to use the best environment for a given problem and software tool.
The CAVE setup immerses the user in 3D visualizations through walls on all sides, projectors from above, tracking cameras, and mirrors hidden behind the facade.Visbox, Inc. Benefits of GRUVEThe CAVE’s technology provides a unique advantage for researchers, scientists, engineers, and others. Seeing and analyzing forces and data that would otherwise not be viewable to the human eye allows the observer to understand their subject matter in more detail.
Benefits of GRUVE to research include:
- Providing an immersive environment: with large screens to fill peripheral vision and stereoscopic projection for a real sense of three-dimensional space, more parts of the brain are engaged, and the user is better able to understand problems and solve them faster
- More effective collaboration: the ability to see each other in the virtual reality environment makes GRUVE better for collaboration than traditional VR technology
- Seeing complex data and flows in 3D: this makes it easier for both experts and non-experts to understand the data
- Providing greater resolution and larger display size: this allows details to be displayed without losing their context
- Delivering faster and more accurate manipulation and viewing of models, including CAD data, with fewer errors: this results in a faster time to market and less re-work
All members of NASA Glenn may use GRUVE for their projects.
Applications of Immersive 3D Environments- Fluid dynamics analysis (CFD)
- Point cloud data, e.g., LiDAR
- Virtual design reviews
- Virtual manufacturing testing
- Computer Aided Design (CAD)
- 3D imaging data
- Training and education
- Virtual procedures
- Biomedical research
- Molecular dynamics
- Virtual building walkthroughs
- Showroom “theater”
- Education and outreach
- Building Information Management (BIM)
- Big data and data mining
- Cybersecurity data analysis
- Safety systems analysis
- Microfocus CT scan data
- Electron microscopy
- 3D photos and videos
- Point cloud data
- Volume data
- Computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
- Computer Aided Design (CAD)
- Molecular dynamics
- Linux CAVE node
- Windows 10 CAVE node
- CAVE wall
- Stereo glasses
- Audio system
- Tracking system
- Wand
- The Windows node attached to the GRUVE Lab runs middleware software, which enables Unity-developed applications to run in the CAVE. This greatly expands the number of VR applications that can be run.
- Vrui VR Toolkit-based applications such as LiDAR viewer and 3D visualizer
- VMD – Visual Molecular Dynamics
- ParaView
- COVISE– Collaborative Visualization and Simulation Environment
The GVIS Lab maintains a large collection of computing, visualization, and user interaction devices including:
- Virtual reality display devices
- Head-mounted displays
- Room-scale CAVE
- Augmented reality head-mounted displays
- 3D displays
- Psuedo-3D displays
- Pepper’s Ghost display
- Persistence of Vision (POV) LED display
- Light field technology- based displays
- Projection devices for projected AR
- Natural user interface devices
- Hand gesture recognition devices
- Motion capture devices
- Cameras for mixed reality
- Computing hardware
- High-end laptops
- High-end desktops
- High-end tablets and smartphones
- Cameras
- Stereo 3D camera
- 180/360 camera
- Flight simulators
- 3D printers
All these devices are available for employees to try and test for possible application to their work.
A Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) intern in the Cave Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE).NASA Contact UsNeed to reach us? You can send an email directly to the GVIS Team (GRC-DL-GVIS@mail.nasa.gov) or to the team leader, Herb Schilling (hschilling@nasa.gov).
Share Details Last Updated Jul 23, 2025 LocationGlenn Research Center Related Terms Explore More 5 min read NASA Advances Pressure Sensitive Paint Research Capability Article 3 weeks ago 1 min read Gateway Space Station in 3D Article 11 months ago 5 min read Augmented Reality Speeds Spacecraft Construction at NASA Goddard Article 1 year ago Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASAWant to Go on a Simulated Mission to the Moon?
Aeronautics STEM
Glenn University Student Design Challenges
NASA at Home: Virtual Tours and Apps
GVIS History
In 1982, a $20 million supercomputer was brought to NASA Glenn. Scientists at NASA Glenn were becoming increasingly reliant on computer simulations to test their experiments. Advancements in computer technology allowed a different type of testing environment — one that revolved around virtual models and data over physical observation. The benefits of this method included a decrease in costs, a decrease in associated risk, faster turnaround, and more data.
High Definition Video System (HDVS)A High Definition Video System (HDVS) in the early Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS). NASA High Definition Video System (HDVS) in the LabNASA employee in early Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) setup, containing High Definition Video Systems (HDVS). NASA Early Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS)Early Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) setup, which housed original analog processing hardware. NASA Cray 1-S/2200 SupercomputerThe original Cray 1-S/2200 Supercomputer in the Research and Analysis Center in 1982.NASABut this method of experimentation created a problem: With data-point counts somewhere in the millions, it was a challenge for scientists to even begin to look at their own collected data. In short, there was simply too much data to be analyzed. To solve this problem, NASA Glenn built the Interactive Computer Aided Research Engineering system (ICARE) in the center’s Research Analysis Center.
Taking up several rooms, consisting of 22 total workstations, and costing a grand total of $20 million, the ICARE system was a way for scientists to examine their data through the aid of supercomputer visualizations. Using both graphical and modular methods, ICARE’s visualizations revealed and shared information in ways that traditional methods could not match.
The construction and implementation of the ICARE system was revolutionary to both the center and NASA as a whole. Before 1982, NASA already had an established interest in powerful computers; however, the ICARE system took NASA into the era of supercomputing. ICARE also brought increased attention to the value and power of scientific visualization.
Original Processing HardwareOriginal analog Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) processing hardware.NASA ICARE RoomAn ICARE room in the Research and Analysis Center. NASA 1980s VisualizationA typical 1980s visualization at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.NASA GRAPH3DGRAPH3D was an innovative technology in the 1980s that supported shaded surfaces and had a rich set of user-friendly commands.NASA The Creation of GVISIn 1989, it was time for an upgrade. NASA Glenn wanted the latest scientific visualization technology and techniques for its scientists, so the center expanded the Research Analysis Center to make room for the new Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS). The GVIS Lab acquired cutting-edge graphics technology, including studio-quality TV animation and recording equipment, stereographic displays, and image processing systems. Later, the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 provided funding and opportunities to add high-speed computing, virtual reality, and collaborative visualization to its fleet of tools.
The secure supercomputing space that would eventually become the Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS), shown in 1989.NASADuring this period, the GVIS Lab was responsible for assisting NASA Glenn scientists who needed help visualizing their data. The lab was also tasked with inventing new visualization techniques and promoting NASA Glenn’s activities though tours, videos, and other outreach programs. Some of the techniques the lab developed included particle tracking, iso-surface contours, and volume visualization. Tour guests included school children, corporate VIPs, local and national politicians, TV news media, and researchers from other national labs. Using state-of-the-art recording and editing hardware, the GVIS Lab regularly shared work both inside and outside of NASA.
As other labs and researchers began to gain access to their own scientific visualization tools, the GVIS Lab shifted its focus to experimenting with virtual reality- and augmented reality-based visualizations.
Jay HorowitzJay Horowitz saw the Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) through its creation and early years at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland. NASA Cray X-MP-2 SupercomputerThe Cray X-MP-2 Supercomputer that replaced the 1-S. NASA Early Research and Analysis CenterThe Research and Analysis Center pre-expansion. NASA Research and Analysis CenterThe Research and Analysis Center after the expansion. The Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) is in the upper left corner. NASA Lewis Advanced Cluster Environment (LACE)The Advanced Computational Concepts Lab’s (ACCL) Lewis Advanced Cluster Environment (LACE) in 1993. NASA Mobile Aeronautics Education Laboratory (MAEL) VR Flight SimulatorSetup showing location of the various equipment used in the Mobile Aeronautics Education Laboratory (MAEL) VR Flight Simulator.NASA Mobile Aeronautics Education Laboratory (MAEL) VR Flight SimulatorMAEL (Mobile Aeronautics Education Laboratory) trailer’s flight simulator supported multi-screen panoramic views or head-tracked Head Mounted Displays (HMDs). NASA WrightSimApollo 13 flight director Gene Kranz watches Jim Lovell pilot WrightSim. NASA 100 Years of Flight Gala CelebrationJohn Glenn talks to a Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) programmer during the 2003 “100 Years of Flight Gala Celebration” event at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland. NASA VR TreadmillThe concept of the VR treadmill was used to test if duplicating a visual-motor linkage was feasible for long-duration spaceflight. NASA 2000s VisualizationTurn-of-the-century Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) model. NASA 2000s VisualizationTurn-of-the-century Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) model. NASA 2000s Visualization Turn-of-the-century Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) model. NASA Aeroshark ClusterThe Advanced Computational Concepts Lab’s (ACCL) Aeroshark Cluster in 2001. NASA Early 2000s Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS)The turn-of-the-century Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS), shown in 2004. NASA Advanced Communications Environment (ACE) ClusterThe Advanced Computational Concepts Lab’s (ACCL) Advanced Communications Environment (ACE) Cluster in 2005. NASA Early Computer Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE)A Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) team member demonstrating the old Computer Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE). NASA Current Computer Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE)A Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) intern in the Computer Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE). NASA GVIS NowToday, the GVIS Lab has the same mission that it had in 1989: to apply the latest visualization and human interaction technologies to advance NASA’s missions. The team takes pride in pushing the limits of scientific visualization and computer science, helping fellow researchers make sense of their data, and inspiring the next generation through demonstrations and presentations. Computational technology has come a long way since the days of ICARE, but GVIS has continued to explore current and cutting-edge technologies.
In addition to scientific visualization and experimental computational technologies, the GVIS Lab now also specializes in virtual design, interactive 3D simulations, natural user interface development, applications of computer science, and mission scenario visualizations. The team uses the latest edition of 3D programs and VR devices to experiment with how these systems can be used to visualize data, pushing their input and output capabilities.
With all this technology, GVIS also supports the visualization of a wide variety of 3D data and models such as CAD, point clouds, and volume data. Additionally, the lab is capable of high-impact data visualization, web-based visualization, time-accurate data representation, and designing and testing CAD models in virtual reality.
The Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) team attends a STEM outreach event at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.NASA Public EngagementOutside of the lab, GVIS has a longstanding history of taking its technology demonstrations across the city, throughout the country, and around the world. The team has extensive experience organizing, presenting, and facilitating STEM-based educational outreach for a variety of different events and venues. Inside the lab, GVIS supports the education and career exploration of its high school and college interns through mentorship, community engagement opportunities, and access to cutting-edge technology.
STEM Engagement EventVisitors interact with the Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) team while attending Score with STEM, an event organized by the Cleveland Cavaliers. NASA/GRC/Jef Janis STEM Engagement EventA visitor interacts with a Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) team member while attending Dino Days at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. NASA STEM Engagement EventA Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) Intern interacts with visitors at a STEM outreach event. NASA STEM Engagement EventGraphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) team members attend Women in Aviation Day organized by Women in Aviation International (WAI). NASA GRUVE Lab ToursThe Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) team provides tours of NASA labs and facilities. NASA GVIS Lab ToursA Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) team member demonstrates VR visualizations. NASA GRUVE Lab ToursVisitors interact with a visualization through the CAVE environment at the Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS). NASA Contact UsNeed to reach us? You can send an email directly to the GVIS Team (GRC-DL-GVIS@mail.nasa.gov) or to the team leader, Herb Schilling (hschilling@nasa.gov).
Share Details Last Updated Jul 23, 2025 Related Terms Explore More 3 min read 1942: Engine Roars to Life in First Test at Future NASA Glenn Article 1 year ago 2 min read NASA Glenn History Includes Contributions of Women in Aerospace Research Article 3 years ago 3 min read NASA Uses Cleveland Landmark for Microgravity Research in the 1960s Article 3 years ago Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASAExplore NASA’s History
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In 1982, a $20 million supercomputer was brought to NASA Glenn. Scientists at NASA Glenn were becoming increasingly reliant on computer simulations to test their experiments. Advancements in computer technology allowed a different type of testing environment — one that revolved around virtual models and data over physical observation. The benefits of this method included a decrease in costs, a decrease in associated risk, faster turnaround, and more data.
High Definition Video System (HDVS)A High Definition Video System (HDVS) in the early Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS). NASA High Definition Video System (HDVS) in the LabNASA employee in early Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) setup, containing High Definition Video Systems (HDVS). NASA Early Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS)Early Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) setup, which housed original analog processing hardware. NASA Cray 1-S/2200 SupercomputerThe original Cray 1-S/2200 Supercomputer in the Research and Analysis Center in 1982.NASABut this method of experimentation created a problem: With data-point counts somewhere in the millions, it was a challenge for scientists to even begin to look at their own collected data. In short, there was simply too much data to be analyzed. To solve this problem, NASA Glenn built the Interactive Computer Aided Research Engineering system (ICARE) in the center’s Research Analysis Center.
Taking up several rooms, consisting of 22 total workstations, and costing a grand total of $20 million, the ICARE system was a way for scientists to examine their data through the aid of supercomputer visualizations. Using both graphical and modular methods, ICARE’s visualizations revealed and shared information in ways that traditional methods could not match.
The construction and implementation of the ICARE system was revolutionary to both the center and NASA as a whole. Before 1982, NASA already had an established interest in powerful computers; however, the ICARE system took NASA into the era of supercomputing. ICARE also brought increased attention to the value and power of scientific visualization.
Original Processing HardwareOriginal analog Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) processing hardware.NASA ICARE RoomAn ICARE room in the Research and Analysis Center. NASA 1980s VisualizationA typical 1980s visualization at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.NASA GRAPH3DGRAPH3D was an innovative technology in the 1980s that supported shaded surfaces and had a rich set of user-friendly commands.NASA The Creation of GVISIn 1989, it was time for an upgrade. NASA Glenn wanted the latest scientific visualization technology and techniques for its scientists, so the center expanded the Research Analysis Center to make room for the new Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS). The GVIS Lab acquired cutting-edge graphics technology, including studio-quality TV animation and recording equipment, stereographic displays, and image processing systems. Later, the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 provided funding and opportunities to add high-speed computing, virtual reality, and collaborative visualization to its fleet of tools.
The secure supercomputing space that would eventually become the Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS), shown in 1989.NASADuring this period, the GVIS Lab was responsible for assisting NASA Glenn scientists who needed help visualizing their data. The lab was also tasked with inventing new visualization techniques and promoting NASA Glenn’s activities though tours, videos, and other outreach programs. Some of the techniques the lab developed included particle tracking, iso-surface contours, and volume visualization. Tour guests included school children, corporate VIPs, local and national politicians, TV news media, and researchers from other national labs. Using state-of-the-art recording and editing hardware, the GVIS Lab regularly shared work both inside and outside of NASA.
As other labs and researchers began to gain access to their own scientific visualization tools, the GVIS Lab shifted its focus to experimenting with virtual reality- and augmented reality-based visualizations.
Jay HorowitzJay Horowitz saw the Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) through its creation and early years at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland. NASA Cray X-MP-2 SupercomputerThe Cray X-MP-2 Supercomputer that replaced the 1-S. NASA Early Research and Analysis CenterThe Research and Analysis Center pre-expansion. NASA Research and Analysis CenterThe Research and Analysis Center after the expansion. The Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) is in the upper left corner. NASA Lewis Advanced Cluster Environment (LACE)The Advanced Computational Concepts Lab’s (ACCL) Lewis Advanced Cluster Environment (LACE) in 1993. NASA Mobile Aeronautics Education Laboratory (MAEL) VR Flight SimulatorSetup showing location of the various equipment used in the Mobile Aeronautics Education Laboratory (MAEL) VR Flight Simulator.NASA Mobile Aeronautics Education Laboratory (MAEL) VR Flight SimulatorMAEL (Mobile Aeronautics Education Laboratory) trailer’s flight simulator supported multi-screen panoramic views or head-tracked Head Mounted Displays (HMDs). NASA WrightSimApollo 13 flight director Gene Kranz watches Jim Lovell pilot WrightSim. NASA 100 Years of Flight Gala CelebrationJohn Glenn talks to a Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) programmer during the 2003 “100 Years of Flight Gala Celebration” event at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland. NASA VR TreadmillThe concept of the VR treadmill was used to test if duplicating a visual-motor linkage was feasible for long-duration spaceflight. NASA 2000s VisualizationTurn-of-the-century Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) model. NASA 2000s VisualizationTurn-of-the-century Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) model. NASA 2000s Visualization Turn-of-the-century Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) model. NASA Aeroshark ClusterThe Advanced Computational Concepts Lab’s (ACCL) Aeroshark Cluster in 2001. NASA Early 2000s Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS)The turn-of-the-century Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS), shown in 2004. NASA Advanced Communications Environment (ACE) ClusterThe Advanced Computational Concepts Lab’s (ACCL) Advanced Communications Environment (ACE) Cluster in 2005. NASA Early Computer Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE)A Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) team member demonstrating the old Computer Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE). NASA Current Computer Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE)A Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) intern in the Computer Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE). NASA GVIS NowToday, the GVIS Lab has the same mission that it had in 1989: to apply the latest visualization and human interaction technologies to advance NASA’s missions. The team takes pride in pushing the limits of scientific visualization and computer science, helping fellow researchers make sense of their data, and inspiring the next generation through demonstrations and presentations. Computational technology has come a long way since the days of ICARE, but GVIS has continued to explore current and cutting-edge technologies.
In addition to scientific visualization and experimental computational technologies, the GVIS Lab now also specializes in virtual design, interactive 3D simulations, natural user interface development, applications of computer science, and mission scenario visualizations. The team uses the latest edition of 3D programs and VR devices to experiment with how these systems can be used to visualize data, pushing their input and output capabilities.
With all this technology, GVIS also supports the visualization of a wide variety of 3D data and models such as CAD, point clouds, and volume data. Additionally, the lab is capable of high-impact data visualization, web-based visualization, time-accurate data representation, and designing and testing CAD models in virtual reality.
The Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) team attends a STEM outreach event at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.NASA Public EngagementOutside of the lab, GVIS has a longstanding history of taking its technology demonstrations across the city, throughout the country, and around the world. The team has extensive experience organizing, presenting, and facilitating STEM-based educational outreach for a variety of different events and venues. Inside the lab, GVIS supports the education and career exploration of its high school and college interns through mentorship, community engagement opportunities, and access to cutting-edge technology.
STEM Engagement EventVisitors interact with the Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) team while attending Score with STEM, an event organized by the Cleveland Cavaliers. NASA/GRC/Jef Janis STEM Engagement EventA visitor interacts with a Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) team member while attending Dino Days at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. NASA STEM Engagement EventA Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) Intern interacts with visitors at a STEM outreach event. NASA STEM Engagement EventGraphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) team members attend Women in Aviation Day organized by Women in Aviation International (WAI). NASA GRUVE Lab ToursThe Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) team provides tours of NASA labs and facilities. NASA GVIS Lab ToursA Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) team member demonstrates VR visualizations. NASA GRUVE Lab ToursVisitors interact with a visualization through the CAVE environment at the Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS). NASA Contact UsNeed to reach us? You can send an email directly to the GVIS Team (GRC-DL-GVIS@mail.nasa.gov) or to the team leader, Herb Schilling (hschilling@nasa.gov).
Share Details Last Updated Jul 23, 2025 Related Terms Explore More 3 min read 1942: Engine Roars to Life in First Test at Future NASA Glenn Article 1 year ago 2 min read NASA Glenn History Includes Contributions of Women in Aerospace Research Article 3 years ago 3 min read NASA Uses Cleveland Landmark for Microgravity Research in the 1960s Article 3 years ago Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASAExplore NASA’s History
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USBR Seal Team Fix Challenge
When a reservoir conduit cannot be closed, thousands of cubic feet of water can roar through uncontrolled, threatening public safety, irreplaceable reservoir storage, and power generation. Seal Team Fix invites engineers, fabricators, and creative problem-solvers to stop that torrent in its tracks. Your mission: design a rapid-deploying, temporary seal that can be deployed to a submerged 3- to 25-ft diameter conduit opening, accommodate differential pressure, and achieve a 95–98 % flow reduction – without leaning on trash racks or other non-structural surfaces. The competition unfolds in three phases: a short-format concept white paper, a funded prototype build, and a lab-scale hydraulic demonstration.
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Open Date: July 22, 2025
Close Date: October 14, 2025
For more information, visit: https://www.herox.com/SealTeamFix
NASA, JAXA XRISM Satellite X-rays Milky Way’s Sulfur
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NASA, JAXA XRISM Satellite X-rays Milky Way’s SulfurAn international team of scientists have provided an unprecedented tally of elemental sulfur spread between the stars using data from the Japan-led XRISM (X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission) spacecraft.
Astronomers used X-rays from two binary star systems to detect sulfur in the interstellar medium, the gas and dust found in the space between stars. It’s the first direct measurement of both sulfur’s gas and solid phases, a unique capability of X-ray spectroscopy, XRISM’s (pronounced “crism”) primary method of studying the cosmos.
“Sulfur is important for how cells function in our bodies here on Earth, but we still have a lot of questions about where it’s found out in the universe,” said Lía Corrales, an assistant professor of astronomy at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. “Sulfur can easily change from a gas to a solid and back again. The XRISM spacecraft provides the resolution and sensitivity we need to find it in both forms and learn more about where it might be hiding.”
A paper about these results, led by Corrales, published June 27 in the Publications of the Astronomical Society of Japan.
Watch to learn how the XRISM (X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission) satellite took an unprecedented look at our galaxy’s sulfur. XRISM is led by JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) in collaboration with NASA, along with contributions from ESA (European Space Agency).NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center
Using ultraviolet light, researchers have found gaseous sulfur in the space between stars. In denser parts of the interstellar medium, such as the molecular clouds where stars and planets are born, this form of sulfur quickly disappears.
Scientists assume the sulfur condenses into a solid, either by combining with ice or mixing with other elements.
When a doctor performs an X-ray here on Earth, they place the patient between an X-ray source and a detector. Bone and tissue absorb different amounts of the light as it travels through the patient’s body, creating contrast in the detector.
To study sulfur, Corrales and her team did something similar.
They picked a portion of the interstellar medium with the right density — not so thin that all the X-rays would pass through unchanged, but also not so dense that they would all be absorbed.
Then the team selected a bright X-ray source behind that section of the medium, a binary star system called GX 340+0 located over 35,000 light-years away in the southern constellation Scorpius.
This composite shows a section of the interstellar medium scientists X-rayed for sulfur using the Japan-led XRISM (X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission). X-ray binary GX 340+0 is the blue dot in the center. The composite contains a blend of imagery in X-rays (represented in deep blue), infrared, and optical light.DSS/DECaPS/eRosita/NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center This composite shows a section of the interstellar medium scientists X-rayed for sulfur using the Japan-led XRISM (X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission). The X-ray binary 4U 1630–472 is highlighted at the center. The composite contains a blend of imagery in X-rays (represented in deep blue), infrared, and optical light.DSS/DECaPS/eRosita/NASA’s Goddard Space Flight CenterUsing the Resolve instrument on XRISM, the scientists were able to measure the energy of GX 340+0’s X-rays and determined that sulfur was present not only as a gas, but also as a solid, possibly mixed with iron.
“Chemistry in environments like the interstellar medium is very different from anything we can do on Earth, but we modeled sulfur combined with iron, and it seems to match what we’re seeing with XRISM,” said co-author Elisa Costantini, a senior astronomer at the Space Research Organization Netherlands and the University of Amsterdam. “Our lab has created models for different elements to compare with astronomical data for years. The campaign is ongoing, and soon we’ll have new sulfur measurements to compare with the XRISM data to learn even more.”
Iron-sulfur compounds are often found in meteorites, so scientists have long thought they might be one way sulfur solidifies out of molecular clouds to travel through the universe.
In their paper, Corrales and her team propose a few compounds that would match XRISM’s observations — pyrrhotite, troilite, and pyrite, which is sometimes called fool’s gold.
The researchers were also able to use measurements from a second X-ray binary called 4U 1630-472 that helped confirm their findings.
“NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory has previously studied sulfur, but XRISM’s measurements are the most detailed yet,” said Brian Williams, the XRISM project scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. “Since GX 340+0 is on the other side of the galaxy from us, XRISM’s X-ray observations are a unique probe of sulfur in a large section of the Milky Way. There’s still so much to learn about the galaxy we call home.”
XRISM is led by JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) in collaboration with NASA, along with contributions from ESA (European Space Agency). NASA and JAXA developed Resolve, the mission’s microcalorimeter spectrometer.
Download images and videos through NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio.By Jeanette Kazmierczak
NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.
Media Contact:
Alise Fisher
202-358-2546
alise.m.fisher@nasa.gov
NASA Headquarters, Washington
Feeling the Heat: Perseverance Looks for Evidence of Contact Metamorphism
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Feeling the Heat: Perseverance Looks for Evidence of Contact Metamorphism NASA’s Mars Perseverance rover acquired this image of the boulders along the contact at Westport, using its Mastcam-Z Left Camera, one of a pair of cameras located high on the rover’s mast. The rover acquired the image on July 10, 2025 — Sol 1560, or Martian day 1,560 of the Mars 2020 mission — at the local mean solar time of 11:23:38. NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASUWritten by Melissa Rice, Professor of Planetary Science at Western Washington University
Following a short break for the July 4th holiday, Perseverance drove westward to a site called “Westport,” where the clay-bearing “Krokodillen” unit meets an olivine-bearing rock formation. It is possible that the olivine-rich rocks are an intrusive igneous unit, meaning they could have formed when molten magma from deep within Mars got pushed upwards and cooled under the surface. If that’s the case, Westport could preserve a dramatic moment in Mars’ history when hot, molten material intruded into existing rock formations.
Those intrusive processes are common on Earth, and the heat of the intruding magma can fundamentally alter the surrounding geology through a process called “contact metamorphism.” The heat from the intrusion will “bake” nearby rocks, creating new minerals and potentially new environments for microbial life. Conversely, the intrusive rocks get rapidly “chilled” where they meet preexisting solid rock formations.
At Westport, Perseverance is looking for evidence that the Krokodillen rocks at the contact were baked, and that the olivine-bearing rocks at the contact were chilled. Images from the Mastcam-Z instrument reveal that the contact is littered with intriguing dark, rubbly rocks alongside lighter-toned, smooth boulders. Both rock types are proving challenging to study.
The dark fragments are too small and rough for Perseverance’s standard abrasion techniques, but the rover cleared off the surface of a rock called “Holyrood Bay” with its gas Dust Removal Tool (gDRT). Perseverance also tried to abrade a nearby boulder named “Drake’s Point,” but the rock shifted to the side, causing the abrasion to stop short. The science questions here are compelling enough, however, that Perseverance will keep trying to look within the rocks at this important boundary.
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Curiosity Blog, Sols 4607-4608: Deep Dip
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Curiosity Blog, Sols 4607-4608: Deep Dip NASA’s Mars rover Curiosity acquired this image, looking toward the upper slopes of Mount Sharp, using its Left Navigation Camera (Left Navcam) on July 20, 2025. Curiosity captured the image on Sol 4605, or Martian day 4,605 of the Mars Science Laboratory mission, at 18:58:26 UTC. NASA/JPL-CaltechWritten by Deborah Padgett, MSL OPGS Task Lead at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Earth planning date: Monday, July 21, 2025
Curiosity continues our exploration of the fractured boxwork terrain on the slopes of Mount Sharp. After a successful 5-meter drive (about 16 feet), our rover is resting in a hollow on its way to a boxwork ridge viewpoint. Over the weekend, Curiosity began an atmospheric observation with the SAM instrument, which will continue into today’s plan. Because the SAM instrument is complex and powerful, it uses a great deal of energy when it operates, causing what we call a “deep dip” in the battery charge level. This means that we have to wait a bit after the SAM observations complete for the battery to recharge enough for Curiosity to observe its surroundings with other science instruments, or move its arm or wheels. For this reason, the plan today does not include a drive, and contact science at this location will be done on the second sol of the plan.
On Sol 4607, Curiosity will begin the day with SAM atmospheric composition activity, which will run for several hours. After it finishes, we will use the rover’s navigation camera to perform a cloud altitude observation, looking for cloud shadows on the upper reaches of Mount Sharp, and clouds drifting by overhead at the zenith. Overnight, Curiosity’s battery will recharge, allowing us to perform a targeted science block on the morning of Sol 4608. This starts with Navcam observations of dust opacity across the floor of Gale Crater, then a measurement of dust in the air toward the Sun with Mastcam. Curiosity then turns Mastcam toward the ridge ahead to obtain a 15×1 mosaic on target “Cueva De Los Vencejos Y Murcielagos (Cave of Swifts and Bats).” Afterwards, Mastcam will look back along Curiosity’s tracks, hoping to see freshly broken rocks and determine the texture of disturbed ground. Next, ChemCam’s laser spectrograph will zap a nodular rock pillar named for the famous high-altitude “Lake Titicaca” bordering Bolivia and Peru. A second ChemCam observation with the RMI telescopic camera will study stratigraphy on the Mishe Mokwa butte with a 5×2 image mosaic. Mastcam will finish off this science block by looking at the pits left behind by the ChemCam laser on target “Lake Titicaca.”
In the afternoon, Curiosity’s arm will reach out to brush the dust from the bedrock target “La Tranquita,” then observe it with the MAHLI microscopic imager and APXS. MAHLI and APXS will also investigate plate-like rock formations at target “Aqua Dulce.” A third target with more complex rock structures dubbed “Paposo,” after a natural monument along the Pacific Coast of northern Chile, will be imaged only by MAHLI. The next morning will include another targeted science block. Curiosity will then drive away toward the next viewpoint in the boxwork terrain of Mars.
For more Curiosity blog posts, visit MSL Mission Updates
Learn more about Curiosity’s science instruments
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NASA eClips STEM Student Ambassadors Light Up CNU’s 2025 STEM Community Day
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NASA eClips STEM Student Ambassadors Light Up CNU’s 2025 STEM Community DayMore than 2,000 curious visitors from Newport News and the surrounding Hampton Roads region of Virginia flocked to Christopher Newport University (CNU) on May 31, 2025 for their annual STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics) Community Day, and the NASA eClips team from the National Institute of Aerospace’s Center for Integrative STEM Education (NIA-CISE) made sure every one of them left with their eyes—and imaginations—fixed on the Sun.
At the heart of the NASA eClips exhibit were NIA’s STEM Student Ambassadors—a team of carefully selected high school students from the Tidewater region of Virginia who underwent extensive training with NASA eClips educators during the summer of 2024. These bright, enthusiastic young leaders are passionate about communicating about and advocating for STEM. The STEM Student Ambassador program is made possible through a Coastal Virginia STEM Hub grant from the Virginia General Assembly and is already having an impact.
Throughout the day, the Ambassadors engaged learners of all ages with two creative, hands-on experiences that connected STEM and the arts:
- Chalk Corona – Using black construction paper and vibrant chalk, participants recreated the Sun’s corona—the super-hot, gaseous “crown” that’s visible during a total solar eclipse. While they shaded and smudged, the Ambassadors explained why the corona is so important to solar research and handed out certified solar viewers for safe Sun-watching back home.
- Pastel Auroras – Visitors also discovered how solar wind, storms, and coronal mass ejections (aka Sun “sneezes”) spark Earth’s dazzling auroras. Guided by the Ambassadors, budding artists layered pastels to capture swirling curtains of light, tying recent mid-Atlantic aurora sightings to real-time space weather.
Throughout the day, the Ambassadors’ energy was contagious, turning complex heliophysics into hands-on fun and opening eyes to the opportunities and careers that await in STEM. Judging by the smiles—and the dusting of chalk and pastels—NASA eClips’ presence was, quite literally, the “crowning” touch on an unforgettable community celebration of STEM.
The NASA eClips project provides educators with standards-based videos, activities, and lessons to increase STEM literacy through the lens of NASA. It is supported by NASA under cooperative agreement award number NNX16AB91A and is part of NASA’s Science Activation Portfolio. Learn more about how Science Activation connects NASA science experts, real content, and experiences with community leaders to do science in ways that activate minds and promote deeper understanding of our world and beyond: https://science.nasa.gov/learn
Two STEM Student Ambassadors engage a young girl while she creates her own Pastel Aurora artwork. Share Details Last Updated Jul 22, 2025 Editor NASA Science Editorial Team Related Terms Explore More 2 min read GLOBE-Trotting Science Lands in Chesapeake with NASA eClipsArticle
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NASA Challenge Wraps, Student Teams Complete Space Suit Challenges
After months of work in the NASA Spacesuit User Interface Technologies for Students (SUITS) challenge, more than 100 students from 12 universities across the United States traveled to NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston to showcase potential user interface designs for future generations of spacesuits and rovers.
NASA Johnson’s simulated Moon and Mars surface, called “the rock yard,” became the students’ testing ground as they braved the humid nights and abundance of mosquitoes to put their innovative designs to the test. Geraldo Cisneros, the tech team lead, said, “This year’s SUITS challenge was a complete success. It provided a unique opportunity for NASA to evaluate the software designs and tools developed by the student teams, and to explore how similar innovations could contribute to future, human-centered Artemis missions. My favorite part of the challenge was watching how the students responded to obstacles and setbacks. Their resilience and determination were truly inspiring.”
Tess Caswell and the Rice Owls team from Rice University test their augmented reality heads-up display at Johnson Space Center’s Rock Yard in Houston on May 19, 2025.NASA/James BlairStudents filled their jam-packed days not only with testing, but also with guest speakers and tours. Swastik Patel from Purdue University said, “All of the teams really enjoyed being here, seeing NASA facilities, and developing their knowledge with NASA coordinators and teams from across the nation. Despite the challenges, the camaraderie between all the participants and staff was very helpful in terms of getting through the intensity. Can’t wait to be back next year!”
John Mulnix with Team Cosmoshox from Wichita State University presents the team’s design during the Spacesuit User Interface Technologies for Students (SUITS) exit pitches at Johnson on May 22, 2025.NASA/David DeHoyos“This week has been an incredible opportunity. Just seeing the energy and everything that’s going on here was incredible. This week has really made me reevaluate a lot of things that I shoved aside. I’m grateful to NASA for having this opportunity, and hopefully we can continue to have these opportunities.”
At the end of test week, each student team presented their projects to a panel of experts. These presentations served as a platform for students to showcase not only their technical achievements but also their problem-solving approaches, teamwork, and vision for real-world application. The panel–composed of NASA astronaut Deniz Burnham, Flight Director Garrett Hehn, and industry leaders–posed thought-provoking questions and offered constructive feedback that challenged the students to think critically and further refine their ideas. Their insights highlighted potential areas for growth, new directions for exploration, and ways to enhance the impact of their projects. The students left the session energized and inspired, brimming with new ideas and a renewed enthusiasm for future development and innovation. Burnham remarked, “The students did such a great job. They’re all so creative and wonderful, definitely something that can be implemented in the future.”
Gamaliel Cherry, director of the Office of STEM Engagement at Johnson, presents the Artemis Educator Award to Maggie Schoonover from Wichita State University on May 22, 2025.NASA/David DeHoyosNASA SUITS test week was not only about pushing boundaries; it was about earning a piece of history. Three Artemis Student Challenge Awards were presented. The Innovation and Pay it Forward awards were chosen by the NASA team, recognizing the most groundbreaking and impactful designs. Students submitted nominations for the Artemis Educator Award, celebrating the faculty member who had a profound influence on their journeys. The Innovation Award went to Team JARVIS from Purdue University and Indiana State University, for going above and beyond in their ingenuity, creativity, and inventiveness. Team Selene from Midwestern State University earned the Pay it Forward Award for conducting meaningful education events in the community and beyond. The Artemis Educator Award was given to Maggie Schoonover from Wichita State University in Kansas for the time, commitment, and dedication she gave to her team.
“The NASA SUITS challenge completes its eighth year in operation due to the generous support of NASA’s EVA and Human Surface Mobility Program,” said NASA Activity Manager Jamie Semple. “This challenge fosters an environment where students learn essential skills to immediately enter a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) career, and directly contribute to NASA mission operations. These students are creating proposals, generating designs, working in teams similar to the NASA workforce, utilizing artificial intelligence, and designing mission operation solutions that could be part of the Artemis III mission and beyond. NASA’s student design challenges are an important component of STEM employment development and there is no better way to learn technical skills to ensure future career success.”
The week serves as a springboard for the next generation of space exploration, igniting curiosity, ambition, and technical excellence among young innovators. By engaging with real-world challenges and technologies, participants not only deepen their understanding of space science but also actively contribute to shaping its future. Each challenge tackled, each solution proposed, and each connection formed represents a meaningful step forward; not just for the individuals involved, but for humanity as a whole. With every iteration of the program, the dream of venturing further into space becomes more tangible, transforming what once seemed like science fiction into achievable milestones.
Are you interested in joining the next NASA SUITS challenge? Find more information here.
The next challenge will open for proposals at the end of August 2025.
The 2025 NASA SUITS teams represent academic institutions across the United States.NASA/David DeHoyos
