Human pilot performance during boost and atmosphere reentry.

T O simulate the acceleration histories for boost and extreme emergency re-entries of an X-15 altitude mission, a centrifuge program was conducted during lhe months 04 March and April, 1957, by North American Aviation, and the U.S. Navy, in cooperation w i n the U.S. Air Force and the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics. Its purpose was to provide in,formation regarding complex, oscillating, variable-direction acceleration patterns. The accelerative conditions were predicted from analogical computer studies accomplished at North American Aviation. The specific objectives of 10he program were .to (1) compare and evaluate .pilot performance, using center and right-hand stick configurations, in controlling the air vehicle dm'ing varied accelerations; (2) evaluate the proposed X-15 armrest and other design configurations to reduce involuntary pilot input ~to either control system due to the acceleration environment; and (3) evaluate inlegrated harness, head restraint, and general physiological tolerance aspects during the special and unusual accelerative conditions.