Visions of Nature: A mixed reality experience

Visions of Nature uses mixed reality glasses which allow you to simultaneously interact with physical and virtual environments.

While wearing the glasses, you’ll be able to see the people and room around you. You'll also hear music, narration and see 3D interactive holograms in front of you.

This makes the experience interactive, as reactions can be shared with others taking part and your own actions, such as holding out a hand, plays a role in the experience.  

How do I use the Microsoft HoloLens?

Our staff will help you put on the HoloLens 2 device and collect it from you at the end.  

The HoloLens 2 device is similar to wearing a construction or bike helmet and has a flexible band that fits over many hairstyles and head coverings.

The headsets can still be worn if you wear glasses, simply adjust the visor so it fits over your frames. If you have a preexisting vision disorder, please speak to your doctor before using the HoloLens 2 device.

Some people may experience discomfort, such as nausea, motion sickness, dizziness, disorientation, headache, fatigue, eye strain, or dry eyes when using mixed reality, particularly as they adjust to using it. If symptoms are severe or don't go away quickly, consult your doctor. 

Warning: Photosensitive seizures

Some people may experience epileptic seizures or blackouts when exposed to lights or patterns in mixed reality or projected environments.

Even if you have no history of seizures or epilepsy, you may have an undiagnosed condition that could cause photosensitive seizures while taking part in the experience.

These seizures may have a variety of symptoms, including lightheadedness, altered vision, eye or face twitching, jerking or shaking of arms or legs, disorientation, confusion or momentary loss of awareness. Photosensitive seizures may also cause loss of consciousness or convulsions that can lead to injury from falling or from striking nearby objects.  

If you experience any of these symptoms, immediately stop using the HoloLens 2 device and consult a doctor. Parents should watch for or ask their children about the above symptoms, as children and teenagers are more likely than adults to experience these seizures. 

Visitors with photosensitive epilepsy should consult a doctor before using HoloLens 2 devices. 

Accessibility

Due to the size of the headsets, Visions of Nature is only suitable for ages 8+.   

The HoloLens 2 device weighs about 570 grammes, slightly more than a small bag of sugar. You'll need to be able to support the headset for the duration of the approximately 20-minute experience.

The experience is created using images and narration that are intended to be seen and heard. Though some context is given to each scenario featured, the holographic animations and physical specimens will not be audio described.

We aim to provide the widest possible access to Visions of Nature, and all of the headsets have adjustable volume levels and subtitles.

For more information, visit Access at South Kensington.

Visitor information

Tickets are £9.95 for both adults and children and £7.95 for members, Patrons and Corporate Supporters.

They include Museum entry after you've visited the experience.

Arrive around 30 minutes before your experience is due to start.

If you have big coats or bags, please consider using our cloakroom. Our team at Visions of Nature aren't able to look after your personal items while you enjoy the experience.

Visions of Nature is on the ground floor of the Darwin Centre in the Spirit Collection Building. 

Make sure you book the correct date and time, as your ticket can't be refunded or exchanged.

Timeslots are every 30 minutes from 10.15 until 16.45, the experience takes around 20 minutes.