# Bringing virtual paragliding into the physical world

Technopolis introduced a VR paragliding installation in July 2018, combining a virtual mountain flight with a physical lift, steering handles, wind and water effects. We supported the concept, visual development, testing and setup. Development was carried out by RMDY.

**Product Type:** VR paragliding installation  
**Industry:** Science centres & immersive experiences  
**Timeframe:** 2018  
**Role:** Concept guidance, visualisation & Unity development support

**Team:** Technopolis, with development by RMDY.

**Scope:** Concept guidance & development, UI visualisation, Unity development support, Testing & installation support

[Watch the project video](https://superflow.design/_astro/technopolis-main.DDvV_s9T.mp4)

![Technopolis virtual reality paragliding installation demonstration.](https://superflow.design/_astro/technopolis-poster.CqrFJXTG.webp)

## The challenge.

The experience combined virtual flight, physics and a physical installation. Mismatches between what visitors saw and how their bodies moved could cause motion sickness, making careful development and repeated testing essential.

## The key decision.

The concept connected the mountain environment with physical movement and sensory effects. Particular attention went to the physical components and their relationship with the virtual experience.

## The rejected option & why.

A visually convincing flight alone was insufficient. The installation also needed attention to physical movement, because a mismatch between bodily motion and the virtual view could make visitors nauseous.

## The outcome.

The installation let visitors experience a virtual flight while being physically lifted and using handles to steer, with wind and water adding sensory effects.

## Supporting images

![Visitor wearing a VR headset in the Technopolis paragliding harness and holding the steering handles.](https://superflow.design/_astro/technopolis1.CIcsLkGx.webp)

![Developer working on the virtual mountain environment at a workstation.](https://superflow.design/_astro/technopolis2.D7J2W6a_.webp)

![Virtual mountain landscape with a lake, forests and rocky peaks for the paragliding experience.](https://superflow.design/_astro/technopolis3.C5vkETc0.webp)

![Technopolis paragliding installation with suspended harness equipment, a climbing-wall backdrop and a display screen.](https://superflow.design/_astro/technopolis5.CPc66d2u.webp)

![Wide view of the raised Technopolis paragliding installation and its surrounding exhibition space.](https://superflow.design/_astro/technopolis6.DTPFzWDZ.webp)

![Participant in a red shirt using the VR paragliding headset and steering handles at Technopolis.](https://superflow.design/_astro/technopolis4.CCKkR18M.webp)

## The final verdict.

The project required concept work, visual development and extensive testing across the virtual and physical experience. RMDY carried out development, with our support for the concept, visualisation and Unity work.

## Facing the same challenges?

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