The Best Day a Pilot Ever Experienced: NASA’s Space Shuttle Simulation

For most pilots, the best day of their life is a subjective experience that could revolve around a significant flight or achievement, like upgrade to captain. For one seasoned pilot and astronaut, that special day was marked not by traditional aviation experience, but by the unique thrill of operating NASA’s Space Shuttle Simulator (SMS).

A Piloting Milestone: Upgrade to Captain

One notable milestone occurred when the pilot was upgraded to captain, receiving the official sign-off from his check airman. The signature moment came during his upgrade training, signifying he had completed all requirements and was ready for line flying as a captain. However, this article focuses on the equally remarkable experience he had in NASA’s SMS, which stands out in its own right.

A Historical Flight: HMS Triumph

Before the SMS experience, the pilot recalls his first 'best day' flying aboard the Royal Navy’s HMS Triumph, a light fleet carrier. This was a memorable flight, not only because it showcased his physical skills in flying a Boulton-Paul Sea Balliol on a straight-deck aircraft carrier, but also the unique stressors of emergency procedures in the confined and bustling environment.

The World’s Biggest Costliest Glider: SMS RTLS Simulations

The author’s true highlight, however, is the experience of flying the RTLS (Return to Launch Site) maneuver in the SMS. This maneuver simulated a critical failure during the Shuttle’s launch, requiring a safe return to the launch site. Unlike conventional launch scenarios, this required no tow plane, no tow rope, and no hand signals, making it an entirely autonomous process.

Key Points: Unprecedented engineering challenges met in simulator Realistic feel and controls through the SMS Managed by flight-control computers, yet entirely simulated

From Liftoff to Descent: Unfolding the RTLS Maneuver

The SMS is designed to manage the Shuttle from its vertical launch to a safe return. As the spacecraft climbed, one of the main engines failed, simulating a serious system issue. This failure required the pilots to burn off fuel and fly vertically to stay within range of the launch site. The Shuttle's orientation was reversed, with the thrusters aimed at the launch site to achieve a safe return path post-main-engine cutoff (MECO).

The simulation's climax was the final approach, which required precise control and naturalistic responses to maintain a safe landing trajectory. Despite the unnatural kinesthetic experience, the pilot managed to descend from an altitude of approximately 70 miles down to a safe landing, following the HUD and flight instruments with stark precision.

Reflections and Impact

This experience was profound, even for a seasoned pilot with experience in the highly demanding U-2 aircraft. The SMS provides an unparalleled training ground for shuttle crews, offering up to 480 hours of training per flight. The real-life application of these simulations was invaluable, preparing astronauts for the complex and critical nature of space travel. The pilot recognizes the dedication of NASA’s professionals in making this training possible.

The SMS’ role in astronaut training is critical, ensuring that astronauts are not just well-trained but confident in their ability to handle critical scenarios. The author’s reflection on this experience highlights the unique nature of being a pilot and astronaut, emphasizing the enduring legacy of these training simulations in the space program.

Overall, the best day that this pilot ever experienced was not just about the thrill of piloting a real aircraft. It was about the opportunity to experience the ultimate in simulation technology, which perfectly prepared astronauts for the challenges of space travel. This day was indeed one of the highlights of his career, and perhaps a reminder of the highest accomplishments in piloting and astronautics.