Heatseeker

Heatseeker is a VR experience designed to help the user visualize, experience, and develop a better understanding of geothermal energy. In Heatseeker, the user is hired to work on the fictional Nevada Institute of Energy Research, Facility 10. While working on the site the user completes an arrangement of mini-games and puzzles each designed to further the user's knowledge about geothermal energy.

Due to the resounding push for renewable energy in recent years, many people are learning about new energy services for the first time. Geothermal energy in particular is undergoing a large boom in popularity specifically in Massachusetts. Heatseeker is designed to bridge the gap for those who want to begin their research into geothermal energy. By creating an engaging and fun experience Heatseeker can appeal to a wide range of users, thus increasing interest and knowledge of renewable energy.

“Heatseeker” is an innovative, and interactive way for users to learn about geothermal plants, and how they work. The user is tasked with exploring different aspects of a geothermal plant via minigames in virtual reality. Using the medium of VR, users are given more freedom of movement that allows them to immerse themselves in the world of the geothermal plant, as well as learn about the impact of decisions they make to the overall performance of the plant.

The project is designed to be both educational as well as being fun, giving users a first-hand look at the various systems involved in the plant. Our target audience is people in either a school setting or interested in learned. The "Heatseeker" project is a unique and effective tool for those seeking to understand geothermal energy and its complexities.We used the game engine Unity, anad the Universal Render Pipeline to make this VR experience look as good as it could be.