The University of California, Santa Barbara, Department of Psychology research team and their poster. James Blascovich, PhD (left) and Andrew Beall, PhD (right) smile while Howard Silver, PhD (seated), chair of the Coalition for National Science Funding, navigates through the virtual world.

Representative Lois Capps (D-CA) prepares to enter the virtual world as Andy Beall helps her put on the VR helmet.

Dr. Beall guides Representative Capps through a game of virtual blackjack.

Dr. Blascovich explains his research to Representative Connie Morella (R-MD) as her staffperson tries the demonstration.

Rep. Capps (left) and Rep. Morella (center) compare virtual experiences as Dr. Blascovich looks on.

Representative Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-NJ) (center) expresses interest in the research of Dr. Beall (l) and Dr. Blascovich (r).

Representative John Larson (D-CT) (left) and Dr. Blascovich are enthralled by the virtual demonstration.

Representative Larson (D-CT) (left) prepares to leap off a virtual cliff himself, as Dr. Beall explains the helmet.

Rita Colwell, PhD, Director of the National Science Foundation, laughs as Richard McCarthy, PhD, Executive Director for Science at APA, explains his lack of even virtual luck at blackjack.