Digital bridges, medieval markets, DNA strands and ancient cities - the Cologne CAVE opens up new visualization and interaction possibilities in research: Today, the the virtual research environment  CAVE (Cave Automatic Virtual Environment) of the University of Cologne was ceremonially inaugurated. In addition to the Rector of the University of Cologne, Professor Dr. Axel Freimuth, representatives of the Ministry of Culture and Science also took a look at the innovative new tool for research and teaching.

In the Cologne CAVE, research can be visualized in a three-dimensional virtual reality environment. The CAVE can be used in all scientific fields in which spatial organization principles apply. For example, the functioning of enzymes or the structure of cells, the formation of planetary systems but also the decay of cities can be visualized and understood.

Physically, the CAVE is a 3x3m measuring cube, open on one side. An illusion world in 3D is projected onto plastic panes on all sides and onto a glass floor. Through stereo glasses, visitors get the impression of being in a three-dimensional real environment. Spatial structures and relationships can be captured intuitively and better understood 

The participants of the opening ceremony agreed: The Cologne CAVE is an innovative digital complement to research at the University of Cologne, which will quickly be filled with life through the creativity of "our" scientists.