The University of Glasgow has launched a groundbreaking virtual reality exhibition dedicated to the renowned 19th-century scientist Lord Kelvin, marking the culmination of his 200th birth anniversary celebrations.
This innovative project, part of the £5.6m Museums in the Metaverse initiative, brings Lord Kelvin’s legacy to life in the digital realm.
The virtual museum showcases digitised scientific instruments and artifacts from The Hunterian’s collection, many of which are not typically accessible to the public.
Visitors can explore a meticulously recreated 19th-century University of Glasgow laboratory, complete with historically accurate architectural elements and early electric lighting.
Dr. Pauline Mackay, a curator for Museums in the Metaverse, expressed enthusiasm about the project: “It really does feel like visitors are transported back in time to see for themselves objects once handled by Lord Kelvin or developed through his research, and it’s a tremendous showcase for the power of virtual reality.”
William Thomson, known as Lord Kelvin, was born in Belfast on June 26, 1824, and emerged as one of the most distinguished scientists of the 19th century. Throughout his time at the University of Glasgow, where he began his studies at the young age of 10, he made significant advancements in physics, engineering, and mathematics.
The exhibition highlights Kelvin’s pivotal role in various scientific fields, including his contributions to the development of the world’s first transatlantic telegraph cable. It also features two versions of the mirror galvanometer, an instrument Kelvin developed to enhance long-distance telegraph signal transmission.
Professor Neil McDonnell, principal investigator of the Museums in the Metaverse project, emphasised the potential impact of this technology. He commented: “Museums in the Metaverse can help liberate these collections and will allow museums the freedom to connect with their audiences in new and exciting ways using XR technology.”
This virtual museum not only celebrates Lord Kelvin’s scientific achievements but also demonstrates the potential of VR technology in preserving and sharing cultural heritage. The project aims to make cultural assets more accessible, potentially reaching audiences who might otherwise be excluded due to geographical constraints.
