Rendezvous Docking Simulator
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The Rendezvous Docking Simulator, also known as the Real-Time Dynamic Simulator, is a simulator at the Langley Research Center. It was constructed for the Gemini program in Building 1244 and it became operational in June 1963 at a cost of $320,000[1] and later reconfigured for the Apollo program.[1] The simulator consists of a gantry frame, with an overhead carriage from which test craft were suspended by cables.[2] A gimbal was powered hydraulically and was capable of changing pitch and yaw at a rate of 1 radian per second or roll at 2 radians per second. The gantry also moved like an overhead crane using electric motors and was capable of travelling Script error: No such module "convert". longitudinally at up to Script error: No such module "convert"., Script error: No such module "convert". laterally at up to Script error: No such module "convert". and vertically Script error: No such module "convert". at up to Script error: No such module "convert"..[3]
It is the only surviving simulator from the NASA Gemini and Apollo space programs that was used by astronauts to practice docking of space capsules with other vessels.[4] Ability to dock reliably with the Apollo Lunar Module was a crucial skill essential for the mission to return from the Moon.[2] The docking simulator was used alongside the Projection Planetarium in training exercises.
It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1985.[4][2][5]
Currently it is stored, hanging from the rafters in Building 1244, a vast hangar at Langley, and there are no plans for it otherwise.[4][2]
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Multi exposure of Rendezvous Docking Simulator in use
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Simulator controls
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Simulating docking the lunar and command modules in lunar orbit in 1967
See also
- List of National Historic Landmarks in Virginia
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Hampton, Virginia
References
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- ↑ a b Hangar – NasaCRgis
- ↑ a b c d Script error: No such module "citation/CS1". and Template:NHLS url (32 KB)Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".
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- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1". (version at Virginia DHR, also including 5 maps showing location of Langley and the simulator within Langley)
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External links
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- Rendezvous Docking Simulator, Langley, one photo at Virginia DHR
- Aviation: From Sand Dunes to Sonic Booms, a National Park Service Discover Our Shared Heritage Travel Itinerary
- NASA Langley Cultural Resources: Rendezvous Docking Simulator
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- Transportation buildings and structures on the National Register of Historic Places in Virginia
- National Historic Landmarks in Virginia
- Buildings and structures in Hampton, Virginia
- Langley Research Center
- National Register of Historic Places in Hampton, Virginia
- Transportation buildings and structures on the National Register of Historic Places
- Apollo program facilities
- Project Gemini