Mixed Reality Meets Quantum Science on the International Space Station

NASA’s Cold Atom Lab – a quantum physics facility aboard the International Space Station – hosts multiple experiments that explore the fundamental nature of atoms by cooling them down to nearly absolute zero (the coldest temperature matter can reach). Earlier this year, NASA astronaut Megan McArthur tested the use of a mixed reality headset (a Microsoft HoloLens) to help keep the experiment at the cutting edge. Though the mixed reality headset has been used in the past to assist astronauts during activities they perform alone, this is the first time it has been used to improve interaction between astronauts and team members on Earth. Members of the Cold Atom Lab team followed all relevant COVID-19 safety protocols during this activity. You can learn more about Cold Atom Lab here: https://coldatomlab.jpl.nasa.gov/