Zula USA and IBM have launched ZulaWorld.com for kids six and up to explore the galaxy through games and other fun challenges.

Based on the science-based series The Zula Patrol, the new virtual world lets young users create their own avatars, fly spaceships and discover how things work as they explore space. Kids can team up with their friends, parents and teachers to solve problems, play games, and other new activities that are fun and promote critical thinking.

Zula USA, in collaboration with IBM Research, have made such features possible through the Emerging Business Opportunity (EBO) program with IBM’s Virtual World Administration software tools.

Basic gameplay levels are free, and ZulaWorld.com also offers a subscription service to unlock more levels, with a monthly rate of US$$5.99, US$29.99 for six months and US$49.99 for the entire year.