Discover How Melting Ice Is Changing Mt Kilimanjaro in an Augmented Reality Film The Last Ascent

The effects of climate change are evident across the globe, including the summit glaciers of Mount Kilimanjaro. You’ll be able to witness this for yourself through an augmented reality video experience with Canadian ice climber Will Gadd.

In The Last Ascent, he goes on what could be his final climb of the Tanzanian peak. Soon, it will be impossible for the world-renowned adventurer to summit Mount Kilimanjaro due to the sharp decline of its glaciers.

Augmented Reality for Climate Change Education

Gadd returned to Africa’s highest peak in February after six years, hoping to scale its ice caps. He wanted to climb the Messner route, which has only been scaled once since the ‘80s. However, when he got there, it was evident that it was no longer possible due to significant ice loss.

The Last Ascent is an augmented reality experience for on-demand video streaming. From the comfort of your living room, you can watch Gadd summit Mount Kilimanjaro. Moreover, you can witness the significant effects of climate change on tropical glaciers.

As Gadd moves up the mountain, you’ll see photographs of his climb from six years ago. The glaciers have lost roughly 70% of their mass since Gadd’s first climb in 2014, illustrating how fast the ice is melting because of our warming climate. Only thin sheets of ice remain from the shrinking glaciers.

Using the Red Bull app, you can scan your TV screen and uncover AR content within the film itself. It enables viewers to learn more about climate change and connect on a deeper level. Hopefully, it might even inspire viewers to help mitigate the effects of the climate crisis.

Augmented Reality in Video Streaming

The Last Ascent is the world’s first synced AR video experience. eyecandylab developed the technology behind the film, which enhances the storyline by adding interactive and immersive experiences throughout the film.

To watch the AR film, you have to download the Red Bull TV app on your mobile device and on your Chromecast with Google TV. You can also use other Android TV OS devices to watch it.

At the beginning of the film, you’ll see a QR code, which you need to scan to access the AR content. Once you’ve synced the film with AR, a 3D replica of Mount Kilimanjaro will appear right before your eyes. Throughout the film, you’ll find various immersive experiences that you can interact with. You’ll see photos, profiles of the climbers, virtual gauges, as well as waypoints.

Even without augmented reality glasses, you can experience the film’s immersive content. You can use your smartphone or tablet to watch the AR content unfold before your eyes.