Absen powers immersive astronomy at Swinburne University

Australia:

Absen has supplied LED technology for a new immersive visualisation facility at Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne that is believed to be one of the largest wraparound LED environments developed for public education.

Officially unveiled in April, the Swinburne Virtual Universe (SVU) facility spans more than 106m² and uses Absen’s KLCOB1.5 PRO V2 LED platform to create a 3D environment where visitors can explore astronomy and space science through real-time simulations and visualisations. Powered by NVIDIA GPU technology and content generated from Swinburne’s OzSTAR and Ngarrgu Tindebeek supercomputers, the installation enables audiences to navigate virtual solar systems, view planetary surfaces and experience astrophysics data through interactive visual content.

According to the manufacturer, the project required a display platform capable of delivering seamless imagery across a large wraparound surface while maintaining colour consistency, close-viewing performance and durability within a public-facing environment. The university selected the KLCOB1.5 PRO V2 technology, featuring a 1.5mm pixel pitch and Chip-on-Board architecture, to meet the visual and operational requirements of the installation.

“The facility is so unique that comparisons with other spaces are difficult, but it’s possible that it is the largest truly 3D wraparound LED screen for public education ever built,” commented Prof. Matthew Bailes, project lead at Swinburne University of Technology. “Our first school group shrieked with joy and ran up to embrace one of Mars’s moons as soon as it appeared floating in front of them.”

The facility will be used by university students, school groups and members of the public, while also supporting programmes within Swinburne’s Film, Games and Animation department.

“Creating an immersive 3D LED environment across more than 106m² in a public educational setting demands exceptional image quality, reliability and precision,” added Ruben Rengel, vice president at Absen. “We are proud that the KLCOB1.5 PRO V2 was selected to power this remarkable installation.”