Video: What game developers can do for NASA

At GDC 2013, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory researchers discussed their Kinect- and Leap Motion-controlled experiments -- the first steps in using game development techniques to help immerse everyone in space exploration. In this free video, courtesy of the GDC Vault, NASA's Jeff Norris and Victor Luo looked at the growing relationship between their research and video games, citing examples from 1979's Lunar Lander to the modern EVE Online. The duo also shared lessons learned in creating the Kinect-enabled Xbox 360 free game, Mars Rover Landing. The talk ended with a live demo of a one-ton robot controlled remotely by a Leap Motion controller. Session Name: We Are the Space Invaders (Presented by NASA) Speaker(s): Jeff Norris, Victor Luo Company Name(s): NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory Track / Format: Design Overview: NASA landed a two-ton Martian mega-rover and shared it with the world through the space agency's first console video game. Meanwhile, the same NASA team is driving giant spider robots and humanoids with video game technologies that may revolutionize the future of space exploration. These endeavors are fueled by ground-breaking partnerships with key players in the game industry. The rocket scientists leading these projects will share the surprising crossover between video games and the systems that command real spacecraft. Packed with live demos, this talk will challenge the way you think about the future of games and space exploration.

About the GDC Vault

In addition to this presentation, the GDC Vault offers numerous other free videos, audio recordings, and slides from many of the recent GDC events, and the service offers even more members-only content for GDC Vault subscribers. Those who purchased All Access passes to events like GDC, GDC Europe, and GDC China already have full access to GDC Vault, and interested parties can apply for the individual subscriptions via a GDC Vault inquiry form. Group subscriptions are also available: game-related schools and development studios who sign up for GDC Vault Studio Subscriptions can receive access for their entire office or company. More information on this option is available via an online demonstration, and interested parties can find out more here. In addition, current subscribers with access issues can contact GDC Vault admins. Be sure to keep an eye on GDC Vault for even more new content, as GDC organizers will also archive videos, audio, and slides from other events like GDC China and GDC 2013. To stay abreast of all the latest updates to GDC Vault, be sure to check out the news feed on the official GDC website, or subscribe to updates via Twitter, Facebook, or RSS. Gamasutra and GDC are sibling organizations under parent UBM Tech.