A Configurable VR Spacecraft Simulator enhanced with HMI data in Microgravity

Abstract Simulators play a crucial role in the aerospace industry, ranging from simple desktop models to advanced Level D simulators used for pilot training. While most non-gaming simulators focus on crew training and client illustration, there is a notable deficiency in simulators that assist with cockpit design. Current methods primarily utilize standard CAD/CAE software alongside Digital Human Models, which often lack adequate functionality for comprehensive human factor evaluation for design optimization. This paper introduces a configurable Virtual Reality Spacecraft Simulator that is calibrated with data from microgravity studies. Unlike manned aircraft, operations involving spacecraft and rovers are predominantly automated or controlled from the ground. The NASA Human Rating standard underscores the importance of manual flight control for crew safety during unexpected failures, with historical missions demonstrating how manual control can ensure safe returns. Therefore, spacecraft simulation must encompass experiences within the craft, similar to how aircraft crews train in high-gravity conditions. Microgravity simulations on Earth, typically lasting less than 30 seconds, are insufficient for thorough human-machine interaction studies. The proposed VR simulator is enhanced by data from the International Space Station, enabling immersive task execution in scenarios such as deorbiting manoeuvres, emergency responses, and robotic arm operations, while also predicting task completion times in microgravity conditions.