Virtual reality (VR) has been a fascinating technology for many years now. It is often difficult to pinpoint exactly when VR began, as it is a concept that has evolved over time. In this article, we will explore the history of VR and try to determine when it all started.
The early days of VR
Virtual reality can be traced back to the 1960s, when researchers at Stanford University developed a head-mounted display (HMD) that could create an immersive environment for users. This HMD, known as the Sword of Damocles, was designed by Ivan Sutherland and allowed users to view a 3D image in front of them.
The first VR experience
In 1968, Ivan Sutherland created the first virtual reality experience, known as “Skywalk.” Skywalk was an interactive program that allowed users to explore a virtual world from the comfort of their own home. The program was designed using a simple HMD and a joystick controller.
The birth of modern VR
In the 1980s, virtual reality technology began to advance rapidly. Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a system called “Cave,” which used mirrors to create an immersive environment for users. In 1992, the first commercial VR headset, the DataGlove, was released.
The rise of consumer VR
In the early 2000s, virtual reality technology began to become more accessible to consumers. The release of the Oculus Rift in 2012 marked a turning point for VR, as it allowed users to experience immersive environments from their own homes. Since then, consumer VR has continued to grow in popularity, with new headsets and experiences being released on a regular basis.
Conclusion
Virtual reality has come a long way since its early days. From the simple HMDs of the 1960s to the advanced consumer VR technology of today, virtual reality has proven to be a fascinating and transformative technology. While it may be difficult to pinpoint exactly when VR began, it is clear that it has been evolving for many years now and will continue to do so in the future.