X-Nico

Neutral buoyancy simulation as a training aid

In July 1966 the Gemini Program joined in a NASA Langley Research Center contract to include an evaluation of Gemini EVA tasks.

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It is the inability to use weight in any vector in EVA coupled with the encumbrance of the pressure suit that makes task performance difficult.

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This capability for pressure suited subjects was initially developed in 1964 by utilizing an indoor swimming pool at a private school (McDonogh School near Baltimore).

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Astronauts rehearse Extra-vehicular activity tasks in underwater neutral buoyancy before attempting those tasks in space to gain an understanding that they cannot use their weight to provide a force and that they may move or reposition themselves if they provide a propulsive force in any vector, either planned or inadvertent.

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Aldrin returned to the McDonogh facility and trained for the final version of his EVA.

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The individual feels gravity standing on the ice but they can’t use their weight to provide traction and they can’t shift their weight to provide force in a horizontal vector so they can’t force the door.

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NASA determined that training for EVA tasks required further development.

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Astronaut Gene Cernan first visited the McDonogh School indoor pool facility for post-mission evaluation of problems that he encountered during his Gemini IX-A EVA.

see also