Though most Indians have still to experience the wonders of virtual reality the concept still makes for interesting reading and viewing. Keeping this in mind BBC World has announced the launch of a new three part series of programmes called Virtual World. It examines the history of the concept, what it is like now as well as the benefits it could provide in the future.

The show hosted by Sham Ambiavagar had its first airing last Saturday. It was mostly filmed in America and includes rare footage as well as a series of interviews according to an official release. The first episode was called Back to the future. It showed how Nasa first made use of the technology. Martian simulators helped train astronauts for their mission to enter Planet Mars. Nasa found that the technology was the only way they could recreate worlds that do not exist on Earth.

If you missed the first episode don't fret. The show repeats today at 11pm and tomorrow at 2 pm.

Jason Lanier who coined the term virtual reality is also featured. Ivan Sutherland's first headset is showcased as is a Royal Navy simulator designed in America by Professor Bob Stone.

The episode also scrutinises the influence the gaming industry has had on the technology. The show enters a 3D room running the game Quake where participants feel that monsters come out of the walls.

Virtual World airs on Saturdays at 2 am with repeat telecasts on Tuesdays at 11 pm and Wednesdays at 2 pm.

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