Report updated Apr 3, 2026
NASA Mars Cardboard Experience
v1.0.22Students, space enthusiasts, and educators interested in learning about Mars exploration and virtual reality technology.
What Is NASA Mars Cardboard Experience?
Launched Jun 25, 2014
Updated Dec 2025
What users think iIndependent intel reports to help builders create better apps or enhance existing ones. Still in beta, accuracy and relevancy get better every day. For informational purposes only.
What does it look like?
What are the key features?
Provides a 360-degree view of Martian landscapes and exploration technologies
Supports both VR headset (Cardboard) and standard screen-based viewing modes
Provides insights into technologies used by astronauts for planetary exploration
What do users think? iIndependent intel reports to help builders create better apps or enhance existing ones. Still in beta, accuracy and relevancy get better every day. For informational purposes only.
“Recent user voice shows a frustrated sentiment. Users appreciate concept and content, but report technical bugs and stability and hardware/compatibility issues.”
What Users Love
Amazing preview of NASA's mars base
Great for 360 still images
Pain Points
It keeps backing out 2 seconds into the video viewer
Everytime I want to go to videos viewer I need to remove the phone from the headset
Can't be used with daydream view goggles
Don't have your qr code for your viewer? too bad
High confidence · 162.9K reviews available
What are the pros and cons?
Pros
- NASA brand authority and data accuracy
- Completely free with no monetization friction
- Unique focus on future exploration technology
Cons
- Severe technical instability and crashes
- Outdated iOS version (no updates since 2017)
- Poor UX requiring device removal from headset
What is the market outlook?
Growth Opportunities
- Pivot to AR for broader accessibility
- Update VR engine for modern headset compatibility
- Improve onboarding with digital QR code configuration
Market Threats
- High-quality commercial rivals like Hello Mars
- Obsolescence of the Google Cardboard format
- User abandonment due to persistent technical bugs
Who competes with NASA Mars Cardboard Experience?
The Nemesis
Why it's a threat
- +
Users are happier — sentiment 62/100 vs 35
- +
Higher rated at 4.7★ vs 3.4★
Contenders
Solar System Scope
★4.4 (860)INOVE, s.r.o.
A highly popular educational tool that includes a dedicated VR mode for exploring planetary surfaces and space technology.
A highly popular educational tool that includes a dedicated VR mode for exploring planetary surfaces and space technology.
Mars Walk
★3.9 (34)Lockheed Martin
A direct competitor from a major aerospace entity providing VR/AR exploration of the Martian surface and future mission tech.
A direct competitor from a major aerospace entity providing VR/AR exploration of the Martian surface and future mission tech.
Offers high-quality 3D models of spacecraft and planetary missions with immersive viewing options.
Time Machine
Peers
While primarily for stargazing, it competes for the same space-enthusiast audience looking for mobile astronomical education.
Time Travel
Includes 'Pocket Gallery' and VR exhibits on space exploration and historical NASA missions.
Art Transfer & Selfie
A premium educational space app that overlaps with NASA's mission to provide accessible planetary data.
Time Machine
Night Sky
iCandi Apps Ltd.
Uses advanced AR/VR features to educate users about space, competing for the same educational 'wow' factor.
Uses advanced AR/VR features to educate users about space, competing for the same educational 'wow' factor.
New Kids on the Block
A fast-growing educational app that uses high-quality visuals to explain the scale of the universe and planetary science.
Seamless Scale Zooming
JigSpace
★4.8 (8K)JigSpace Inc.
Uses AR to break down complex machinery like the Mars Rover, providing a more interactive educational experience than static VR.
Uses AR to break down complex machinery like the Mars Rover, providing a more interactive educational experience than static VR.
What are the key takeaways?
NASA Mars Cardboard Experience is a frustrating education app that is completely free. With a 3.4/5 rating from 162.9K reviews, it frustrates many users from users. Users particularly appreciate concept and content, though technical bugs and stability remains a common concern.
Best for: Students, space enthusiasts, and educators interested in learning about Mars exploration and virtual reality technology.
How much does it cost?
Model: free
The app serves as a public outreach and educational tool for NASA, prioritizing accessibility and public engagement over monetization.
iOS Version
1.0.22
Android Version
4.0
Release Date
Jun 25, 2014
iOS Price
Free
Android Price
Free
Developer
NASA