LOSE THE ILLUSION
Spatial Disorientation Training Lab Embry-Riddle’s unique Spatial Disorientation Training Lab lets students experience visual and other illusions that pilots may face during flight, especially in conditions of adverse weather or limited visibility. Spatial disorientation occurs when pilots cannot correctly interpret aircraft attitude, altitude or airspeed in relation to the Earth. Genetically speaking, humans are designed to maintain spatial orientation on the ground — but it’s a different story in the air. NTSB accident statistics show that spatial disorientation is a precursor to many aviation accidents, with between 5% and 10% of all general aviation crashes attributed to spatial disorientation, 90% of those being fatal. The three-dimensional environment of flight is unfamiliar to the human body, creating sensory conflicts and illusions that make spatial orientation difficult, and sometimes impossible, to achieve. The goal of the lab is to make students aware of these dangerous illusions and demonstrate methods to avoid spatial disorientation. By experiencing illusions first-hand (on the ground), pilots are better prepared to recognize an illusion when it happens during flight and to take immediate action to stay safe.
Four-Axis Motion The simulator offers four degrees of freedom: pitch, roll, heave and 360° of continuous yaw.
360º Immersive Experience A high-powered computer with a Valve Index VR headset and hand controls is capable of running flight
simulation software and other standalone VR applications.
Mind Games The three-dimensional environment of flight is unfamiliar to the human body, creating sensory conflicts and illusions that make spatial orientation difficult and sometimes impossible to achieve.
The Force Dynamics 401cr Motion Simulator This full-motion system provides a large motion range that truly simulates forces, delivers high-impact acceleration and has best-in-class frequency response that helps eliminate motion sickness.
12 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
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