I just got to try one out today at the I/ITSEC trade show in Orlando, FL. I’ve been attending I/ITSEC for more than 20 years. (Not every year, though.)
This headset is pretty stunning. 4K per eye, imagery is magnificent. And now I’ve experienced mixed reality for the first time, which is pretty cool. I expect that mixed reality will be improved substantially in the next couple of years.
Yes this headset is quite expensive but it’s half the price of the previous version and outperforms it.
I checked it out at Varjo’s booth, where they had a basic F-16 cockpit setup for the demo. With a headset of this quality and performance, it eliminates any need for a projection display system for the out-the-window visuals. Prior to this I considered that to be the crown jewel of a cockpit simulator. No longer. A top notch VR headset like this is quite close to the same experience with a bunch of advantages. You may have to pay more for the headset but you can eliminate the external displays, screens, projectors, etc, which might result in cost savings that pay for the headset.
I also discovered that it’s just not as easy to get into and out of the cockpit at my age as it was some years ago. Well, I am in my late 50s now…so I guess it had to happen sooner or later. So glad I work out or I’d have needed help getting out!
If I ever do get around to buying/building my own cockpit sim, it’l have a door on it like a car. No need to climb up and over to get in or out.