Immersive Space Education: VRCORE and ISS Bring the International Space Station to Schools
November 28, 2024 – Calgary, AB – VRCORE Education, a leader in immersive virtual reality learning, has partnered with the International Space Station National Laboratory (ISSNL) to launch "ISS: Curiosity in Orbit," a groundbreaking VR experience that transforms school gymnasiums into fully immersive space labs.
This initiative, funded by a prestigious grant from the ISSNL and NASA, allows students to step into a simulated International Space Station environment without leaving their schools. While physically grounded in their gymnasiums, students can explore a virtual world with simulated gravity, conduct hands-on experiments, and engage in real-world problem-solving. The program, set to debut in September 2025, aims to inspire a new generation of space enthusiasts by eliminating barriers to STEM education.
Local Launch, Global Impact
The program’s initial rollout will begin in underrepresented schools across Alberta and Texas. By targeting underserved communities, the project aligns with the ISS Educational Initiative, which focuses on using space-related programs to enhance STEM education and workforce development.
Jason Van Hierden, President of VRCORE Education, emphasized the transformative potential of this collaboration: “We are incredibly excited about this partnership with the ISS National Lab. By breaking traditional barriers to space-related education, we’re offering students a unique opportunity to explore the science and innovation of space. This program is more than just an educational tool—it’s a gateway to inspire future scientists, engineers, and explorers.”
Teacher Perspectives and Student Benefits
Educators are already recognizing the value of the program. One teacher noted: “For schools, it takes away barriers like bussing, supervision, and costs. For students, the benefits are immense—being part of their education, seeing it, and touching it makes all the difference.”
This initiative will allow students to immerse themselves in experiments across physics, biology, and chemistry—subjects often out of reach for many underserved communities. By blending cutting-edge technology with hands-on learning, VRCORE is democratizing access to STEM opportunities.
Expanding the Frontiers of Education
As the aerospace industry faces a growing demand for skilled workers, this initiative plays a vital role in inspiring the next generation of innovators. With support from the ISSNL, VRCORE is ensuring that today’s classrooms spark curiosity about space exploration and careers in science, engineering, and technology.
Media Invitation: Experience "ISS: Curiosity in Orbit"
VRCORE invites the media to experience the program firsthand during its inaugural launch in September 2025. Journalists and select politicians will have the opportunity to explore the virtual ISS, interact with the technology, and speak with students, educators, and program leaders. Details of the event will be provided closer to the launch date.
Call to Action
Schools interested in booking "ISS: Curiosity in Orbit" or exploring franchising opportunities are encouraged to visit VRCORE’s website at www.vrcore-ed.com. Space is limited for early bookings, and grant funding from the ISSNL covers the costs for the first participating schools.
About VRCORE Education
VRCORE Education specializes in creating immersive VR experiences using the Focus Series hardware from HTC, that make learning interactive, accessible, and inspiring. From exploring the solar system to investigating the building blocks of matter, VRCORE’s modules are designed to ignite curiosity and bring science to life for students around the world.
