HOUSTON & SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today NASA and Osterhout Design Group (ODG) unveiled they are teaming up to explore the use of ODG’s Smart Glasses for terrestrial and space-based activities. The two will collaborate to evaluate the use of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in human spaceflight, with the ultimate goal of one day deploying ODG’s technology on NASA space missions.
ODG has spent six years developing Smart Glasses, working with government customers and corporate partners to build, refine and advance its technology. ODG’s Glasses are the most advanced, robust and mobile Augmented Reality device available today. They allow users to do everything they do with a tablet, with 3D graphics overlaid and in a true, hands free format. Packed with positional sensors, the Glasses know where you are, where you’re looking, and how you’re moving, enabling precise AR and exciting VR experiences in even the most demanding environments.
A potential early use for the ODG Glasses by NASA is ‘Assisted Reality’ software that enables line of sight check lists, guided support via telepresence, and the ability to overlay digital markers on machinery or equipment while keeping the user’s eyes and hands focused on their task. This technology can increase the accuracy and efficiency of astronauts’ in-flight activities, something that is increasingly important as NASA takes on longer duration space missions. Several ODG customers in the medical and energy and utilities industries already use such software, and ODG is excited to explore its use with NASA.
“As electronic directions and instructions replace paper checklists and longer duration missions are considered, there is a need for tools that can meet evolving demands,” said Lauri Hansen, Engineering Director at NASA Johnson Space Center. “ODG’s technology provides an opportunity to increase space mission efficiencies and we are pleased to explore its potential in human spaceflight while also advancing its use here on earth.”
“ODG’s Smart Glasses are revolutionizing the way we explore information and interact with our environments and each other,” said Ralph Osterhout, Founder and CEO of ODG. “ODG and NASA share an unwavering commitment to advance technology and today’s announcement is a vote of confidence in the power, promise, and possibility of headworn augmented reality technology.”
For information about NASA and agency programs, visit: http://www.nasa.gov
For more information about ODG, visit: www.osterhoutgroup.com
About JSC Spacecraft Software Engineering Branch
The division is responsible for the design, development, testing, and operations of intelligent systems, robotic systems, and real-time simulation systems that facilitate the Human Exploration and Development of Space. The division participates in both programmatic functions as well as targeted research and development in support of Johnson Space Center programs.
About Osterhout Design Group
San Francisco based Osterhout Design Group (ODG) was founded in 1999 as a technology incubator and today is focused on revolutionizing wearable technologies and developing innovative and sophisticated situational awareness, security and first-responder solutions for government, enterprise and ultimately, consumer markets.
