WHAT IS THE DOROTHY PROJECT ?
Interdisciplinary research lab and film studio based in Montréal.
We operate at the intersection of immersive media, space technology, digital art and cognitive science.
Our core question is simple : does access to an authentic, high-altitude view of Earth, delivered through immersive VR, trigger measurable changes in human cognition, emotional response, and ecological behavior ?
We investigate this through a comprehensive methodology: we conduct stratospheric missions and capture real imagery from high-altitude balloon flights. From this material, we produce immersive experiences, documentaries, and science communication films. Following their screening, we run experimental studies to assess viewer responses.
Inspired by nature, informed by scientific exploration, and driven by the urgency of environmental conservation, we aim to deepen humanity’s connection to Earth.
Footage taken by Dorothy 35 km above the Rockies in British Columbia (2024)
THE OVERVIEW EFFECT
Cognitive shock, awareness experienced by some astronauts during spaceflight, when they observe the Earth from space.
First documented in astronaut testimonies and formally theorized by Frank White (1987), the Overview Effect describes a cluster of cognitive and emotional transformations, including heightened awe, dissolution of perceived national and social boundaries, intensified sense of planetary fragility, and increased pro-social and environmental motivation, reported by individuals who have observed Earth from space.
To date, this phenomenon has been studied almost exclusively through retrospective qualitative accounts. The central challenge of Overview Effect research is access: fewer than 700 humans have ever been to space.
Dorothy's approach is to bring the view to the world, and to study, rigorously and at scale, whether an immersive mediated experience of that perspective can produce analogous, measurable psychological effects.
Astronaut Tracy Caldwell Dyson "Earth gazing" in the Cupola module of the International Space Station. Source : NASA
OUR TEAM
Founded by Mathieu Baptista in 2017
As our project continues to flourish and grow, our team is also in constant evolution and we are always seeking new members.
Mathieu Baptista
Director
Silvano Mercado
Project Developer
Melina Mano
Communication Manager
Maude Vu Ngoc
Environmental Reseacher
Martin Gros
360° Camera Technician
Tiphaine Roustang
Videographer
Liseca D. Michel
Launch Coordinator
Fabien Rousselot
Drone Operator
Loïc Messal
Software Developer
Gregory Ogden
Embedded System Developer
We are looking for
Cognitive researcher
We are looking for
3D artist and VR developper
THE VOLUNTEERS
Beyond our core crew, we also have volunteers who assist with launches, events, and screenings. Our dedicated team of volunteers is crucial to our success; without them, none of this would be possible.
