Virtual reality is one of the very practical tools of visualization during research. With virtual reality, or immersive visualization, researchers are able to experience 3D simulations of natural or human-engineered phenomena, thus developing new insights and more profound understanding to the subject of their research. Often eliminating the need for physical models, work within virtual environments has been shown to save time and resources in both commercial and scientific research.
In its efforts to serve science and development, the BA installed a CAVE (Computer Aided Virtual Environment) system known as VISTA (Virtual Immersive Science and Technology Applications) to meet the digital challenges of today. Managed by ISIS, VISTA is the latest generation of FLEX™ visualization systems that allow for running research applications where viewing, association and presentation requirements are poorly met within the confines of 2D visualization. This walk-in virtual reality system allows for interactive work within three-dimensional computer-generated models and environments, thus providing better visualization and analysis of the carried out research.
The BA is the first in Africa and the Middle East to provide researchers with such advanced visualization tools. Introducing this technology in the region will provide researchers with the infrastructure they need to cooperate and work closely with researchers from all over the world and will pave the way towards future collaboration. Since its inauguration on 15 February 2006, VISTA has been utilized by various research centers for applying scientific applications in many fields.