Cratering in Lonar

Anoushka Shome | Jayesh Pillai

Lonar Crater

Abstract

Lonar Crater is one of the world’s few meteor impact craters formed in basalt rock, holding geological, ecological, and cultural significance. Despite its scientific importance and living heritage, it remains underrepresented in public understanding and engagement. This project explores how XR technologies can translate complex, layered knowledge into accessible and immersive public experiences, particularly in a museum or experience-centre context.

Google Earth map of Lonar crater marked with the town, visitors centre, existing MTDC resort and upcoming Lonar Crater Experience centre, which will host the museum and the proposed installations.
Google Earth map of Lonar crater marked with the town, visitors centre, existing MTDC resort and upcoming Lonar Crater Experience centre, which will host the museum and the proposed installations.

Design Approach

The project follows a research-driven, iterative design process grounded in museum XR practices. The experience balances guided storytelling with exploratory interaction to avoid cognitive overload while preserving curiosity.

  • Field research and site documentation at Lonar Crater
  • Study of XR use in museums and science centres
  • Identification of audience needs and accessibility constraints
  • Ideation across AR, VR, and MR, followed by medium selection
  • Prototyping using Unity and OpenXR with a focus on Mixed Reality
  • Iterative refinement through expert feedback and usability considerations

Objective

Information architecture of the Lonar Crater experience, showing the sequence and the connection between the scenes
Information architecture of the Lonar Crater experience, showing the sequence and the connection between the scenes


  • To demonstrate the potential of Mixed Reality as a public-facing medium for science and heritage communication
  • To make Lonar Crater’s geological and cultural narratives more accessible to non-expert audiences
  • To create a prototype that can inform future installations for the proposed Lonar Experience Centre.
Design of the handheld map Handheld map being used
Information architecture of the Lonar Crater experience, showing the sequence and the connection between the scenes
Design of the handheld map Handheld map being used
Design of the handheld map Handheld map being used

Evaluation & Findings

The prototype was evaluated in a controlled setting with users of varying familiarity with XR. These insights reinforced the importance of clarity, pacing, and physical grounding in museum-based XR experiences.

Conclusion

This project demonstrates how Mixed Reality can bridge the gap between scientific research and public engagement without overwhelming users with technological novelty. By combining narrative, spatial exploration, and layered information, the experience presents Lonar Crater as both a scientific phenomenon and a living cultural landscape.

The work lays a foundation for scalable, immersive installations that can support education, conservation, and public curiosity around complex heritage sites.

QR for prototype
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