Nasa investigates virtual space

[TechBear_Seattle]

Nasa investigates virtual space

The US space agency is exploring the possibility of developing a massively multiplayer online (MMO) game.

The virtual world would be aimed at students and would "simulate real Nasa engineering and science missions".

The agency has published a "request for information" (RFI) from organisations interested in developing the platform.

Nasa believe the game would help find the next generation of scientists and engineers needed to fulfil its "vision for space exploration".

"A high quality synthetic gaming environment is a vital element of Nasa's educational cyberstructure," the RFI reads.

"The MMO will foster career exploration opportunities in a much deeper way than reading alone would permit and at a fraction of the time and cost of an internship program."

The article continues at http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7195718.stm

I can't help but be reminded of The Last Starfighter. Anyone who does well in this game will no doubt become a target for government "recruitment."