What was VR first used for?
Virtual reality (VR) is a technology that creates a simulated environment for users to interact with in a computer-generated world. The first uses of VR can be traced back to the 1960s, when researchers began developing ways to create immersive environments for people to experience and explore.
Military Training
One of the earliest uses of VR was in military training. The U.S. Department of Defense’s Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) funded the development of the first VR system, known as the Sword of Damocles, in 1968. This system used a large-scale head-mounted display to create an immersive environment for pilots to practice flying and other military tasks. The Sword of Damocles was used extensively during the Vietnam War and helped train pilots for real-life combat situations.
Entertainment
Another early use of VR was in entertainment. In 1968, computer scientist Ivan Sutherland developed the first interactive computer game, known as Sketchpad. This program allowed users to create their own shapes and manipulate them in a virtual space, using a light pen to interact with the game. Sketchpad is considered one of the earliest examples of VR entertainment and paved the way for future video games and interactive media.
Education
VR has also been used in education since its early days. In 1969, researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) developed a VR system called the “Café Wall” to teach people about art and design. The Café Wall allowed users to explore different styles of art and design in a virtual environment, using a head-mounted display and hand controllers to interact with the displays.
In addition to these early uses, VR has since been used for a wide range of applications, including medicine, architecture, and engineering. Today, VR technology continues to evolve and is becoming more accessible to people around the world. As we look to the future, it’s exciting to imagine what new ways VR will be used to enhance our lives and experiences.
