View of the Phoenix centrifuge simulator interior from the observation lounge.
For those interested in something a little more full-motion, I submit to you a quick post today pointing toward what civilian commercial scientist-astronaut training, (i.e., non-NASA) looks like.
Courtesy of Keith Cowing (of nasawatch.com, spaceref.com, and a phalanx of other space industry sites fame,) the video of our high-g centrifuge training at the NASTAR Center last May was recorded and uploaded as a live webcast (I’m second in the video).
NOTE: Because the video was recorded live, all commentary, hoots, hollars, and laughter is therefore uncensored and should be received in that light.
Click here for the archived webcast. (Be advised – the video is long!)
Each participant in the video takes three “flights” on a SpaceShipOne-style craft simulator built into a state-of-the-art centrifuge. The first of these simulations is performed at 50% power, and the second two are at 100%, enabling trainees to experience exactly what the pilots of SpaceShipOne experienced on their way to space.
Video of the exterior of the simulator during a “run” may also be found here, while a view of the display inside the simulator during a run may be seen here.
It was a blast! (I blogged the experience starting here.) So, for the curious, enjoy the video, and many thanks to Keith for archiving this for posterity!
Astrowright 
Leave a Reply