Last December NASA shipped Microsoft HoloLens to the International Space Station along with 7,000 pounds of cargo. Now, the agency has announced how astronauts are using the device and for what purpose (see Scott Kelly's Twitter post below).

NASA has already explained that the augmented reality headset is part of an experiment called Sidekick, wherein the device acts as a means in which the ISS crew can receive instruction from the ground. This is particularly important since astronauts currently need to pore over thick manuals in order to conduct repairs. The Hololens can provide a visual walk-through and could even show the process in 3-D to complete tasks faster. This development could make it possible for new astronauts to spend less time training on Earth because the device could serve as convenient "sidekick" whenever a need for support or a crisis arises, according to Engadget.

Microsoft has provided more detailed information about project Sidekick using HoloLens. The company cited two modes of operations in its system. The first is "Remote Expert Mode," which uses Skype to allow ground experts see what the wearer sees so that he or she can provide real-time guidance, Microsoft said in a blog post. The second involves "Procedure Mode," which contains animated holographic illustrations to guide the crew to accomplish tasks on its own.

"Microsoft HoloLens is about transforming the ways you create, connect, and explore," Alex Kipman, technical fellow at Microsoft, was quoted as saying in an official NASA statement. "Sidekick is a prime example of an application for which we envisioned HoloLens being used - unlocking new potential for astronauts and giving us all a new perspective on what is possible with holographic computing."

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