Titans of Space® is a virtual reality application that offers users an immersive guided tour of the Solar System and select stars. This app is designed for the Android platform, making it accessible for those who wish to explore the cosmos using a virtual reality headset like Google Cardboard. Users can download Titans of Space® to experience a unique educational journey through space.
The app allows users to compare the sizes of planets and moons in a toy-sized format, scaled down to one millionth of their actual size. This unique scaling provides a clearer perspective of the relative sizes and distances between celestial objects, enhancing the educational aspect of the experience. While the distances between objects are not to scale, this design facilitates easier comparisons, making it an effective learning tool.
Titans of Space® includes a dynamic soundtrack that is matched to the tour, providing an engaging auditory experience as users navigate through the universe. The app is equipped with a dashboard that displays informational text at various tour stops, ensuring that users receive relevant context and insights about the celestial bodies they encounter. There are also additional pages of information available for those who wish to delve deeper into specific topics.
For users who prefer a narrated experience, Titans of Space® offers a narration add-on that includes 50 minutes of voiceover content. This narration is currently available in English, with options for English subtitles, providing an additional layer of accessibility for users. To purchase this feature, users can find the Narration panel in the green Options menu during their tour.
The app is built using Cardboard SDK 0.4.10, which enhances stability across many devices. An experimental drift correction mode is available as an option when starting the app. This feature is particularly beneficial for devices that experience persistent rotation issues. However, users already enjoying stable views may find this mode less effective, resulting in a "floaty" feeling during head tracking.
Titans of Space® requires a phone with the NEON CPU extension for optimal performance. This requirement ensures that users experience smooth framerates and minimal latency during head tracking. Modern smartphones are recommended for the best experience, and it is advisable to close any unnecessary background applications to improve performance. For instance, the app runs at 50-60 frames per second on devices like the Nexus 5 with minimal background activity.
No input is necessary for users to enjoy the full tour; however, if the headset includes a strap, using a controller is recommended for added comfort. Users with NFC-enabled phones can benefit from Cardboard headsets featuring a magnetic switch or a Cardboard 2.0 headset that allows for screen tapping.
The app has been translated into multiple languages, although some portions remain in English. This allows a broader audience to engage with the content, although users should be aware that certain elements may not be fully translated.
Designed for educational purposes, Titans of Space® strives to make learning about the Solar System accessible and enjoyable. The combination of engaging visuals, informative text, and narrations facilitates a comprehensive understanding of astronomical concepts. The user-friendly interface and customizable options allow individuals to tailor their experience to their preferences, whether they wish to explore at their own pace or follow the guided tour.
In addition to its educational features, the application provides users with a visually appealing experience of space exploration. The combination of sound and visuals creates an immersive atmosphere that can enhance the user's understanding of the vastness of the universe.
For those interested in astronomy or looking for an innovative way to learn about space, Titans of Space® offers a unique opportunity to engage with the Solar System like never before. The app serves as an excellent resource for students, educators, or anyone curious about the cosmos. By downloading Titans of Space®, users can embark on a journey through the stars, gaining insights into the universe's wonders.
The app's thoughtful design and features underscore its commitment to providing an informative and engaging space exploration experience. With the ability to compare sizes, receive detailed information, and enjoy narrated content, Titans of Space® stands out as an educational tool in the realm of virtual reality exploration.
Learn more about Google Cardboard at g.co/cardboard.