Computer Based Astronaut Training Beyond the ISS

Future space missions are expected to last longer and travel further, bringing significant skill retention issues and greater crew independence.

A new generation of 3D virtual reality training tools has taken the first step towards providing the solution to future training issues.

This paper looks at the current computer based training available for astronauts at the European Astronaut Centre (EAC) and examines the possible next steps which can be validated using the planned fleet of ATV spacecraft.