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, 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?
Underground Hall of Terreiro do Paço Metro Station Metropolitano de Lisboa - Terreiro do Paço, 1100-278 Lisbon. You will need to get in the Terreiro do Paço station, in the direction of the Metro / Underground entrance to be able to find our secret hall.
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 can include up to 4 visitors, additional groups can depart approximately every three minutes.
Will food and beverage be available on site for purchase?
No food or beverages will be available for purchase at this event.
Will there be merchandise for sale?
No.
Is there parking available?
The venue does not have private parking, but there are several car parks nearby and very good public transport links.
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 12 - 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 12+ are welcome.
Are lockers or a coat check available?
Yes, there are clothes racks available on-site to store your belongings, 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 clothes racks provided on-site. Personal backpacks (even small ones) are not permitted during the experience.
About tickets
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. Select "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 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 App 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. 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 App 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 get a gift voucher?
Yes, visit our website’s gift card section here, you can buy a gift card online which can be used for the experience. Can I make a group booking?
Yes, for groups of 19 guests or fewer, book your Group Bundle tickets directly on the ticketing page here. For groups of 20 or more guests, please visit our dedicated Group Visits & Private Events page here. Can I come back a second time for free?
No, tickets for the experience are valid for a one-time entry.
Do you offer press passes?
If you would like a press pass, please email press@feverup.com.
All press inquiries about the Smithsonian should be directed to the Smithsonian Office of Public Affairs. Reporters can email: smithsonianmedia@si.edu About access to the event
When should I arrive for my scheduled session?
We recommend arriving 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.
Can I bring animals? Are service dogs allowed?
Trained service animals that perform tasks related to their handler’s disability are welcome. Pets and other non-service animals are not permitted.
Is the venue accessible?
Yes, the event is held in a venue with elevator access.
Can virtual reality be uncomfortable or unsuitable for some guests?
Virtual reality is designed to be immersive and enjoyable, but some individuals may experience discomfort while using a VR headset. The experience may not be suitable for guests with claustrophobia or vertigo.
Guests prone to motion sickness may experience symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, or drowsiness during or after the experience.
Can guests with heart conditions or epilepsy participate?
No, unfortunately people with a heart condition, an implanted medical device or epilepsy cannot take part in our immersive virtual reality expedition.
Is the experience safe during pregnancy?
Some individuals may be more susceptible to dizziness or fainting during pregnancy, and the experience takes place on a hard walking surface throughout. For these reasons, we do not generally recommend the experience for pregnant guests.
The VR content itself is not known to cause harm during pregnancy. Guests who choose to participate while pregnant should consult their doctor beforehand.
Can I participate while carrying a baby or using a stroller?
No, the VR headset blocks visibility of the surrounding environment, the experience is not compatible with baby carriers or strollers.
If you are attending as part of a group, our staff can help stagger entry times so that a guardian remains with the child at all times.
How do I avoid bumping into walls and other people during the experience?
The experience includes built-in visual safety cues to help you navigate your space. Walls and columns will appear as red mesh grids. If you see them, simply step away to maintain a safe distance.
All guests appear as translucent, starry avatars. Members of your group will have their names displayed above their avatars, while other guests will appear without names.
If you notice a red bubble around a guest’s avatar, it means they’ve requested extra space. Please give them additional room.
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 caregiver or companion tickets?
Yes, guests who require assistance throughout the experience may request one complimentary ticket for a personal assistant, caregiver, or support worker at the venue entrance.
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