Virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality: For astronaut mental health; and space tourism, education and outreach

Virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) can evoke a sense of presence, where a person can feel as though they are physically present in a virtual environment. The intention of this research is to understand whether VR/AR/MR can create human connection and experience through interactions with virtual environments to assist in the prevention and treatment of psychological impacts to astronaut health during longterm and long-distance space missions (experiencing Earth from space); and for space tourism, education and outreach purposes as a cost-effective way for people to experience space; to help people understand how important the space industry is to our lives; and to inspire future careers (experiencing space from Earth).Qualitative literature review was undertaken to understand current and potential future VR/AR/MR technologies and how they are being used in psychology; in space; for astronaut mental health in space; for two-way communication; for general tourism, education and outreach purposes; and for space tourism, space education and space outreach purposes.Recommendations are proposed for further study into VR/AR/MR as a tool for astronaut mental health and wellbeing; and for further development of VR/AR/MR experiences for space tourism, education and outreach purposes.

Automated summary

Virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) can create a sense of presence in virtual environments. This research explores the potential of VR/AR/MR in creating human connection and experience for astronaut mental health during space missions and for space tourism, education, and outreach purposes.