Development of a Virtual Reality space docking simulator for research and training - A case application in the space analogue SIRIUS-21

Miquel Bosch Bruguera, Santiago López Bermúdez, Gisela Detrell, Reinhold Ewald

Research output: Contribution to journalConference articlepeer-review

Abstract

Over the last decade, the Institute of Space Systems (IRS) in Stuttgart, Germany, has developed and deployed a series of space docking simulators, mainly based on the Soyuz -TMA and PTK-Orel spacecraft, which have been used for research of piloting performance during experiments in Antarctica and Moscow, Russia. Now, a new concept of a spacecraft docking simulator has been developed using emergent technologies such as virtual reality (VR), eye-tracking and hand-tracking. This paper describes the latest development of this VR simulator concept and its first field deployment for the SIRIUS-21 analogue mission at the facilities of the IMBP in Moscow. The simulator allows for the acquisition of flight telemetry, pilot behaviour, and biometric parameters during flight scenarios involving the ISS and the Lunar Gateway. Its deployment in analogue missions and isolated environments provides tools to enhance the understanding of human performance and the assessment of potential risks in long duration space missions. The use of eye-tracking and hand-tracking, for instance, enables the study of the pilot's interaction with spacecraft instrumentation and provides an insight into mental focus and compliance with flight safety procedures. Finally, a critical analysis of the simulator and its development perspectives for potential use in real astronaut training are given.

Original languageEnglish
JournalProceedings of the International Astronautical Congress, IAC
Volume2022-September
StatePublished - 2022
Externally publishedYes
Event73rd International Astronautical Congress, IAC 2022 - Paris, France
Duration: 18 Sep 202222 Sep 2022

Keywords

  • Analog Missions
  • Flight Simulator
  • Human Performance
  • SIRIUS
  • Virtual Reality

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