Altimetrisia

Altimetrisia is a term that has emerged to describe a phenomenon related to the perception of altitude, particularly in the context of virtual reality and other immersive digital experiences. It is not a recognized medical or psychological condition in the traditional sense, but rather a descriptive term for the subjective feeling of height experienced when engaging with simulated environments. This feeling can sometimes be surprisingly intense, even when the user is physically safe and at ground level.

The sensation of altimetrisia is thought to be triggered by the disconnect between visual cues and other sensory input. In virtual reality, for example, the eyes may perceive a great height, leading to a feeling of vertigo or unease. However, the body's proprioceptive system, which provides information about body position and movement, does not register the same sense of falling or instability. This mismatch can create a unique psychological experience. Factors such as the quality of the virtual environment, individual susceptibility to motion sickness, and prior experiences with heights can all influence the intensity of altimetrisia. While sometimes uncomfortable, the phenomenon can also be seen as a testament to the power of immersive technology to engage our brains and senses in unexpected ways. Research into altimetrisia is ongoing as developers and researchers explore how to create more comfortable and realistic virtual experiences.