What are VR DOMES?

(Virtual reality domes can be used for anything, like in this instance where a dome is being used to show guests interesting aspects of the diamond industry. Credit: Fisheye)

1. What are virtual reality domes

Virtual reality domes are a construct that has become popular in the last few years.  These domes give audiences a full 360 degree view of projections or LEDs that can take them to mystical lands or the depths of space. The ability VR domes give to show audiences a new form of viewing experience. 

2. How do they work

A VR dome is a large, immersive display that surrounds the user on all sides. Unlike traditional flat screens, VR domes provide a 360-degree field of view, giving users a more realistic and immersive experience. VR domes can be used for a variety of purposes, including gaming, training simulations, and virtual reality experiences. How do they work? Most VR domes are made up of multiple projection screens that create the illusion of a single, continuous image. This image is then projected onto the inside of the dome, creating an all-encompassing display. By wearing a headset and tracking sensors, users can interact with the virtual world just as they would in real life. Thanks to latest advances in technology, VR domes are becoming increasingly popular and accessible.

These VR domes work with a few different systems in place. First, you have the dome structure itself which is made of strengthened steel segments that place together and form the dome itself. The structure is then covered with a protective waterproof lining that shields it from the wind and elements. Second, the insides are lined with high-quality projectors that will be mapped along the surfaces of the interior to give seamless high quality projection. 

(An incredible experience designed to put the audience right in the passenger seat of a jeep on rugged and exciting trails. Credit: Lumen and Forge)

3. What can you use them for

Virtual reality domes offer a unique way to experience entertainment and education. They can be used for video projection, gaming, and even simulated experiences. For example, NASA uses virtual reality domes to train astronauts for space walks. The dome allows for a full 360-degree view of the virtual environment, providing a more immersive experience than a traditional screen. Similarly, some theme parks use virtual reality domes to give riders an exciting new way to experience roller coasters and other rides. Virtual reality domes provide an immersive experience that can be used for entertainment, education, and even training. VR domes are capable of showing audiences a whole new experience that they would not have gathered elsewhere. The domes can create a story driven experiences that make use of the 360 surrounding projection. 

4. Who makes them

With this rise in popularity that these domes have garnered, a few technology companies have started to employ them and their services. Companies have started to emerge that focus on supplying projection domes for services. These companies can also create all the content that will get projected and used. These services can be found all over the world and a few companies are willing to travel wherever is needed, such as Las Vegas based experiential event company, Lumen and Forge, who are leaders in the VR dome and immersive experience industry.