Computer simulations were around long before I was born and have become increasingly more realistic and complex. As a child in the early 90s, I remember sneaking a quick go on my friend’s dad’s copy of Microsoft Flight Simulator, only to rapidly lose interest because it was too realistic. However, for that same reason, he was glued to it, practicing at every opportunity in the comfort of his faux-leather swivel chair.
Microsoft created Flight Simulator to give the public a basic understanding of how to fly an aircraft. Although realistic to a degree, using this type of simulation alone is seldom sufficient for mastering the practical skills of flying a plane. Fortunately, pilots also have the luxury of being able to practice in a real aircraft under the supervision of trained professionals.
Astronauts, on the other hand, are less fortunate. With the cost of launching a rocket coming in at around $500 million, taking one out for a practice run is not an option (Wall, 2012). There’s also the fact that one bad decision made in space could be your last.
These are just a couple of reasons why astronauts use some of the most (if not the most) sophisticated simulators there are (Martin & Siceloff, 2016). These aim to perfectly replicate both the virtual and physical environments of a spacecraft and are programmed with scenarios designed to test knowledge and skills in critical situations.
Scoop.it!
No comment yet.
Sign up to comment