About the experience
What can I expect from the event?
Starstruck is a 40-minute, shared virtual reality experience in which groups of up to six guests explore the cosmos together. Each participant wears a lightweight, wireless VR headset that presents a fully three-dimensional digital universe. As guests move freely within a physical room, the visuals respond naturally, creating the sensation of walking among the stars.
Guided by a virtual host named Astro, the journey begins at the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory and travels to stars, exoplanets, the Pillars of Creation, and a black hole. Guests can see and interact with one another as digital avatars, reinforcing the shared, social nature of the experience. Built-in motion tracking and visual boundaries within the headset help ensure guests safety.
Starstruck was developed by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory and Fever, with Smithsonian Enterprises overseeing the collaboration. Content experts from the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) provided scientific oversight throughout the development. Visuals and narratives are informed by data from NASA, the European Space Agency, the Hubble Space Telescope, the James Webb Space Telescope, the Chandra X-ray Observatory and SAO research.
Where is the experience located?
The experience is located at 926 F St NW Washington, DC 20004, USA
Does the experience take place in an indoor or outdoor venue?
This experience is held indoors in an air-conditioned venue.
How long does the experience last?
The core experience lasts approximately 40 minutes. Guests should plan for additional time for check‑in, orientation, and headset fitting.
How many people can take part in the experience in the same group?
A group is made up of 6 visitors, additional groups can depart approximately every three minutes.
Will food and beverage be available on site for purchase?
Water and select soda products are available for purchase, subject to availability. We ask that these are consumed pre- or post- experience as no liquids are allowed inside the VR arena.
Will there be merchandise for sale?
Yes! There will be merchandise for sale at the shop.
Is there parking available?
The venue does not have private parking, but there are several garages nearby, including Joyce Parking at 950 F St NW and Carroll Square Garage just around the corner. Please check opening hours in advance.
Is there Virtual Reality?
Yes, the experience uses wireless, free-roam VR headsets with real-time motion tracking. Guests’ physical movements, gestures, and positioning are mirrored in the virtual environment, enabling natural, intuitive exploration. The system supports shared experiences with up to six participants, and includes interactive elements that allow guests to engage directly with the environment and narrative.
Is there a dress code?
We recommend dressing comfortably and wearing suitable shoes. Please refrain from wearing hats or caps because you will wear a VR headset.
For everyone's safety, we kindly ask you to store your backpacks and handbags in the lockers provided on site.
Can I drop off my children?
All children (ages 10 - 17) must be accompanied by an adult.
What is the recommended age for children to attend?
Due to the fit of the headset and for the safety of all participants, children aged 10+ are welcome.
Are lockers or a coat check available?
Yes, there are lockers available on site to store your belongings, including light coats. These lockers are provided free of charge!
Is there a bag policy?
For everyone's safety, we kindly ask you to store all backpacks and handbags in the lockers provided on site. Personal backpacks (even small ones) are not permitted during the experience.
About tickets
Where can I get tickets?
On the Fever website or in the Fever App, available on Google Play and the Apple Store
Can I purchase tickets at the door?
We have a box office on site. We highly recommend booking tickets in advance in order to guarantee a spot. You can purchase tickets in the Fever App or on the Fever website.
Can I transfer my tickets to another person?
Yes, you can transfer your tickets to anyone for free. It is as easy as clicking "Transfer Tickets" on your ticket in the Fever App. Please contact us if you need additional help. Make sure to include your ticket order number.
Do I need to print my ticket?
You can find your ticket in the "Tickets" section of the Fever app (you can download it from the Apple App Store or Google Play). Please remember to log in with the same login method used to make the purchase. You will also find your QR code in your purchase confirmation email.
I can't find my ticket. What should I do?
You can view your ticket in the Fever app, within the Tickets section. If you don't have the app installed, you can download it from the Apple Store or Google Play. Remember to log in using the same account that you used when buying the tickets. If you still cannot find your ticket, please contact us.
Can I change the date of my ticket?
This experience allows date changes up to 48 hours in advance. If you would like to make the change, please contact us and include the ticket ID associated with your purchase. You can also check if this option is available by consulting your ticket in the "Tickets" section of the Fever App where, if enabled, the "Change date and/or time" button will appear. Follow the steps indicated in the link to change the date and/or time of the ticket. For more information, you can consult our T&Cs.
Can I make a group booking?
Yes, for groups of 21 or more people, contact us here to receive a personalized proposal.
Do you offer press passes?
If you would like a press pass, please email press@feverup.com.
All press inquiries about Smithsonian should be directed to the Smithsonian Office of Public Affairs. Reporters can email: smithsonianmedia@si.edu
About access to the event
Do I need to arrive at the start of my scheduled session?
It is recommended that you arrive 15 minutes before the time stated on your ticket. If you miss your check-in time, you should speak to a staff member when you arrive for assistance. We will accommodate you as soon as possible.
What are the closest stations? What's the best public transportation?
Yes, there are several metro and bus stations near the venue at 926 F St NW, Washington, DC.
Closest Metro Stations: McPherson Square Station (≈3-min walk) – Green and Silver Lines; Gallery Place–Chinatown Station (≈9-min walk) – Red, Green, and Yellow Lines.
There are many bus lines serving the area.
For detailed routes and updated service schedules, you can refer to the WMATA trip planner.
Can you do the experience with a child in a baby carrier or stroller?
No, the equipment (blocking all vision of your surroundings) is incompatible with carrying a baby in a baby carrier, on your stomach, on your back, or within a stroller. If you are entering in a group, we can stagger the entrance times so that an adult can remain with the child in the lobby at all times.
What are the prohibited items at the experience?
Anything which may disturb the other visitors such as flash photography or alcohol are not allowed in the experience. For the safety of all guests, firearms, knives, mace, or any item that could be used to inflict harm are prohibited in our venues. Firearms are not allowed despite carry permits or licenses, including for off duty law enforcement.
Do you offer companion tickets?
Guests requiring assistance throughout this experience may apply for one free pass for their companion at the entrance of the venue.
Is it possible to wear eyeglasses?
Yes, staff are on hand to show guests how to position the headset correctly.
Note to any visitors wearing prescription glasses: we advise using standard, single focus glasses, as other types such as varifocals may lower the overall viewing experience.
Will there be strobe lights?
This event doesn’t include strobe lights.
Are there chairs available? Can I be seated during the experience/exhibition?
The default experience is designed as a walkthrough experience and does not include seating within the virtual environment. Mobility aides (such as wheelchairs) may be available free, subject to availability. If you would prefer a fully seated experience, we are happy to accommodate this request on-site.
Benches are available in the lobby before and after the experience for your comfort. If at any point during the experience you would like to pause or take a break, simply raise your hand and a member of our staff will be happy to assist you..
Will restrooms be available on site?
Yes, restrooms are available within the venue for your convenience. Please ask our staff if you are unable to locate them.
Can I take photos or record the experience?
Yes, we invite our guests to take photos and videos for personal use only and would love for you to tag us at @starstruckexperience / @fever_global. Please note, the use of flashes and tripods are strictly prohibited. Press photography (and any other photography for professional use) must be authorized by a staff member.
Is there a Lost & Found?
Please ask the staff if you have misplaced your belongings as soon as possible or contact us.
3D walkthrough 
Grounded in
Made for All 
