Russian Scientists Build Virtual Chemistry Lab for Students
A VR platform developed in Omsk lets schoolchildren and university students run complex experiments safely—without expensive equipment or real-world risks.
Students from the Faculty of Information Technology and Computer Systems at Omsk Polytechnic Institute have unveiled an educational project that uses virtual reality headsets, according to GTRK Irtysh.
The goal was clear: make chemistry easier and more engaging. The result is a VR simulator that allows users to conduct even complex experiments without costly lab gear. Developers say there is no direct analogue of this lab in Russia.
Experienced chemists and physicists were involved in the project. One developer noted that safety was the top priority: in the virtual environment, there is no risk of glassware exploding or toxic fumes being released.
Looking ahead, the researchers plan to integrate a neural network into the lab to simulate experiments, including those too dangerous to perform in reality.
