Orlando Sentinel: ‘Space City’ Embraces New Era of Virtual Tourism

‘Space City’ Embraces New Era of Virtual Tourism‘Space City’ Embraces New Era of Virtual Tourism Orlando Sentinel Cape Canaveral, Florida – Once known solely as “Space City,” Cape Canaveral is embracing a new era of virtual tourism, offering immersive experiences that transport visitors to the cosmos without leaving their homes. Driven by the advancements in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technology, Cape Canaveral is positioning itself as a hub for virtual space exploration. Several attractions and organizations are partnering with VR developers to create cutting-edge experiences that allow visitors to: * Explore the launch pad of Apollo 11: Step into the iconic Launch Complex 39A and witness the historic launch of the mission that sent humans to the moon. * Walk on the surface of Mars: Use VR headsets to traverse the Martian landscape, examining geological features and encountering simulated robotic rovers. * Train like an astronaut: Experience the physical and mental challenges astronauts face by participating in virtual simulations of spacewalks and docking procedures. “Virtual tourism is transforming the way we engage with space exploration,” said Laura Caldwell, CEO of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. “It provides an accessible and immersive way for people of all ages to experience the wonders of space.” The new virtual offerings are attracting a wide range of visitors, including students, space enthusiasts, and those who cannot physically travel to Cape Canaveral. “I never thought I’d get to see the launch pad of Apollo 11 in person,” said Emily Carter, a teacher from California. “This VR experience is incredible and will help me bring the history of space exploration to life for my students.” The virtual tourism industry is expected to grow exponentially in the coming years. Cape Canaveral is well-positioned to capitalize on this growth, leveraging its unique history and expertise in space exploration. “We are excited to be at the forefront of this new era,” said Mayor John Walsh. “Virtual tourism will not only attract visitors to our city but will also inspire the next generation of space explorers.” As Cape Canaveral continues to embrace virtual reality, it solidifies its reputation as a hub for space exploration, both in the physical and virtual realms.