Space explorers venture into the unknown. But the support crews of the space explorers do their best to send their imagination, analysis, and scientific knowledge ahead. Simulation has always been an integral part not only of astronaut training but also of testing engineering designs of hardware and software and all the procedures developed for the mission. The hard work of a dedicated simulation and training support team prepares the astronaut crews to successfully deal with emergencies, while mostly avoiding surprises in the mission execution.

Using virtual reality hardware, mission specialist . Michael Foale trains for extravehicular duty for the STS-103 shuttle mission, which included plans to service the Hubble Space Telescope.

Specific Applications of Simulation

Simulation allows the astronauts to become comfortable with the unfamiliar. The astronauts practice on simulators such as a mock-up of the space shuttle's crew compartment. Pilots practice shuttle approaches and landings with the modified...