Notes

Outline

PT3: Lessons Learned from the Space Shuttle Joe C. Parrish Skyline Soaring Club Front Royal, VA

Agenda The Space Shuttle & Thinking Ahead Glider Abort Modes Tips & Tricks

Space Shuttle Abort Modes Space Shuttle uses overlapping abort modes to address engine-out emergencies: Return to Launch Site (RTLS) Transatlantic Abort (TAL) Abort Once Around (AOA) Abort To Orbit (ATO) Shuttle pilots practice these abort modes in simulator Flight controllers monitor and announce abort mode transitions during launch Transition points vary with payload weight, atmospheric conditions, etc.

Space Shuttle Abort Modes

Glider PT3 Modes A glider launch is a progression of options Glider pilots can emulate the Space Shuttle procedure by verbalizing abort modes and transitions throughout the launch Land straight ahead 180° turn and land downwind (RTLS) Land off-field (TAL) Normal/abbreviated pattern (AOA) Above pattern altitude (ATO) Transition points vary on each flight Pilot/passenger weight, density altitude, towpilot technique Since no flight controller, verbalize to yourself! “Straight ahead on the runway…straight into the next field…over the fence into the far field…return to airport…abbreviated pattern...”

PT3 Planning Diagram

Tips & Tricks Beware transition “gaps” on high density altitude days Stupid Instructor Trick:  Simulate PT3 at point where student could make nominal pattern Very few will perform correctly! Consider replacing callout of “200 feet” with “Decision Point”