NASA has unveiled a new app for iOS today, which aims to teach you all about the spacecraft that is uses to explore our solar system. Called Spacecraft 3D, the app uses augmented reality to present each machine right in front of you, so that you can get up close and personal to see how they move, and learn how they work. It’s completely free, and it works on iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
Spacecraft 3D currently features animation for two missions — the Curiosity, a robot that will be used to explore Mars next month, and the GRAIL, a “washing machine-sized satellite” that orbits the Moon.
To use the app, you’ll need to print off a special marker (available within the app) that you then place on the ground. Spacecraft 3D then uses augmented reality to turn that market into one of the spacecraft mentioned above, and this is where the magic really happens.
You can walk around each spacecraft as if they were parked up in your living room, inspecting each one from all angles, and seeing exactly how they function when they’re in space. The closer you get, the more detailed they become.
Furthermore, NASA promises it will be adding more spacecraft to the app in the future.
You can find Spacecraft 3D in the App Store now using the link below.
Source: App Store
Via: SlashGear