UH-60 Night Vision Goggles (DQ)
what means of disconnecting are available in the event of emerfgency egress?
(1) Release the ANVIS goggles from the helmet. (2) Disconnect the OU from the ANVIS goggles via the thumbscrew. (3) Grasp PSCU and pull down.
Explain binocular cues and their value to crewmembers?
Binocular cues depend on the slightly different view each eye has of an object. Thus, binocular perception is of value only when the object is close enough to make a perceptible difference in the viewing angle of both eyes. However, since most distances outside the cockpit are so great, binocular cues are of little to no value to crewmembers. Binocular cues also operate on a more subconscious level than monocular cues and are not greatly improved through study and training. Therefore, these cues are not covered further in this publication.
Describe the protective measures that can be taken to preserve an aviator's night vision
Cockpit light adjustment Exterior light adjustment Light flash compensation
Describe the factor that aids in determining distance using the retinal image: Terrestrial Association
Comparison of one object such as an airfield with another object of known size such as a helicopter helps in determining the relative size and apparent distance of the object from the observer.
Describe confusion with ground lights and how to compensate for it
Confusion with ground lights occurs when a pilot mistakes ground lights for celestial lights. The illusion prompts the pilot to place the aircraft in an unusual attitude to keep the misperceived ground lights above the aircraft. Isolated ground lights can appear as celestial lights, which could lead to the illusion the aircraft is in a nose-high or one-wing-low attitude. When no celestial lights are visible because of overcast conditions, unlighted terrain can blend with the dark overcast to create the illusion the unlighted terrain is part of the sky. This illusion can be avoided by referencing the flight instruments and establishing true horizon and attitude.
Describe the crater illusion and how to compensate for it.
Crater illusions occur when crewmembers land at night under night vision device (NVD) conditions and the infrared searchlight is directed too far under the aircraft's nose. This combination creates the illusion of landing with upsloping terrain in all directions or landing in a crater. This illusionary depression lulls the pilot into continually lowering the collective and could result in the aircraft prematurely impacting the ground, causing damage to both aircraft and crew. If observing another aircraft during hover taxi, the pilot might perceive the crater is moving with the aircraft being observed.
How can crewmembers compensate for the loss of peripheral vision whilewearing NVG's? (FM 3-04.203 p.4-18
Crewmembers must use a continual scanning pattern to compensate for the loss. Moving the eyes will not change the viewing perspective; the head must be turned. (FM 3-04.203 pg.4-18
What factors increase the stress of aircrews during terrain flight, and how can those be minimized?
Demands on aircrews increase dramatically when terrain flight operations increase, especially NVD terrain flight. Specifically, fighter management becomes a larger issue with an increase in psychological and physiological stress. The factors increasing stress include— • Increased workloads (physical dexterity and mental processes). • Limited FOV when using NVDs. • Reduced visual acuity, viewing distances, and depth perception. • More complex aircrew coordination. Frequent training, physical fitness, thorough flight planning, and preparation can minimize these factors.
What are the CAUTIONS associated with the starting procedure of the AN/AVS-7 heads up display?
Do not connect or disconnect the Display Unit (DU) with power applied to the aircraft. The AN/AVS-7 should not be used if the quick-release connector is not in working order.
Why should you not use blue/green markers on paper maps and mission packets?
Do not use blue markers as they cannot be seen under the blue filters used in the cockpit
What is edge glow, what causes it and how do you check for it?
Edge glow is a bright area (sometimes sparkling) in the outer portion of the viewing area. Edge glow is sometimes caused by an emission point (or a series of emission points) just outside the field of view or by a defective phosphor screen that permits light feedback to the photocathode. To check for edge glow, block out all light by cupping a hand over the objective lens. If the image tube is displaying edge glow the bright area will still show up. Reference: tm 11-5855-313-10 pg. 7-4
Describe the terms EENT and BMNT
End Evening Nautical Twilight EENT: is when solar ambient light becomes unusable when the sun is 12 degrees below the horizon or about 48 minutes after sunset. Begin Morning Nautical Twilight BMNT: is when before sunrise, solar light becomes usable when the rising sun is 12 degrees below the horizon or about 48 minutes before sunrise.
Describe the factor that aids in determining distance using the aerial prospective: Position of Light Source and Direction of Shadow
Every object casts a shadow in the presence of a light source. The direction in which the shadow is cast depends on the position of the light source. If an object's shadow is cast toward an observer, the object is closer to the observer than the light source
What is the WARNING associated with the in-flight operation of the AN/AVS-7 heads up display?
Excessive brightness of the symbology display may impair vision outside the cockpit.
Describe how exposure to bright sunlight can have a cumulative and adverse effect on dark adaptation.
Exposure to bright sunlight also has a cumulative and adverse effect on dark adaptation. Reflective surfaces such as sand, snow, water, and manmade structures intensify this condition. Exposure to intense sunlight for 2 to 5 hours decreases visual sensitivity for up to 5 hours and also decreases the rate of dark adaptation and degree of night visual acuity. These cumulative effects can persist for several days.
What is the WARNING associated with the starting procedure of the AN/AVS-7 heads up display?
Failure to remove the ANVIS neck cord prior to operation of the HUD may prevent egress from the helicopter in an emergency.
Describe the hight depth perception and how to compensate ofr it
Height-depth perception illusions are due to a lack of sufficient visual cues and causes crewmembers to lose their depth perception. Flying over areas devoid of visual references such as desert, snow, or water deprives crewmembers their perception of height. Misjudging the aircraft's true altitude, the pilot might fly the aircraft dangerously low to the ground or other obstacles above the ground. Flight in an area where visibility is restricted by fog, smoke, whiteout, brownout, or haze can produce the same illusion.
Describe how high and low flight altitudes affect terrain interpretation.
High Altitude Changes in viewing angle and distance at which an aviator is viewing an object will change the apparent shape of that object. The ability to identify manmade or natural features progressively decreases as flight altitude increases. This condition is affected at all levels of ambient light. When flight altitude increases, contrast between features becomes less distinguishable and features tend to blend. As terrain definition becomes less distinct, detection from altitude becomes difficult. Low Altitude Terrain becomes more clearly defined and contrast is greater when an aviator flies closer to the ground. This allows manmade and natural features to be more easily recognized and permits increased navigational capability. However, the viewable area of a crewmember at low altitudes is smaller than at higher altitudes. With NOE / contour altitudes, that area is even smaller, sometimes requiring an aviator to reduce airspeed to permit more accurate terrain interpretation. Objects can also be identified at low altitudes by silhouetting them against the skyline
Explain when mesopic vision is experienced, its characteristics and what photoreceptor cells are used?
Mesopic vision is experienced at dawn, dusk, and under full moonlight. Vision is achieved by a combination of rods and cones. Visual acuity steadily decreases with declining light. Color vision is reduced or degraded as light levels decrease and the cones become less effective.
Of the three types of vision, which is the most dangerous and why?
Mesopic vision is the most dangerous vision type for crewmembers. How degraded the ambient light condition is determines what type of scanning or viewing technique crewmembers should use to detect objects and maintain safe and incident-free flight. For example, the gradual loss of cone sensitivity might necessitate off-center viewing to detect objects in and around the flight path. Incidents might occur if crewmembers fail to recognize the need to change scanning techniques from central or focal viewing to off-center viewing.
What is the purpose of the minus blue coationg on the NVG's?
Minus-blue coating. A special coating in the objective lens of the ANVIS that filters out light from the instrument panel in aircraft with the correct lighting. This makes the ANVIS "blind" to the instrument lighting so the glare does not interfere with viewing outside the aircraft.
Describe the monocular cue: Motion parallax
Motion parallax is often considered the most important depth perception cue. Motion parallax refers to the apparent relative motion of stationary objects as viewed by an observer moving across the landscape. Near objects appear to move past or opposite the path of motion; far objects appear to move in the direction of motion or remain fixed. The rate of apparent movement depends on the distance the observer is from the object. Objects near an aircraft appear to move rapidly, while distant objects appear to be almost stationary. Thus, objects that appear to be moving rapidly are judged to be nearby while those moving slowly are judged to be at a greater distance. Motion parallax can be apparent during flight. One example is an aircraft flying at 5,000 feet above ground level. At this altitude distant terrain appears stationary, while the terrain immediately below and to either side of the aircraft appears to be moving slowly (depending on forward airspeed). The opposite is true when an aircraft descends to 80 feet above highest obstacle with a forward airspeed of 120 knots. Terrain and objects in the horizon appear to move at a faster rate, while the terrain and objects underneath and to either side of the aircraft appear to pass at a high rate of speed.
Exterior Lights Switch: The _____ position enables normal illumination of the external lights. The ______ position enables infrared illumination of the searchlight. The ______ position enables infrared illumination of the following external lights: formation lights, position lights, and searchlight. The ___________, ______________, ____________, and _________ are _____ in the ALL IR position.
NORM SRCH IR ALL IR The anticollision lights, cargo hook light, normal position of the searchlight, and landing light are disabled in the ALL IR position
What factors affect the quality of depth perception and distance estimation while using NVGs?
NVGs distort depth perception and distance estimation. The quality of depth perception in a given situation depends on factors including available light, type and quality of NVGs, degree of contrast in the FOV, and user experience. The aircrew must often rely on the monocular cues covered in FM 3-04.301.
Describe the relative motion illusion and how to compensate for it
Relative motion is falsely perceived self-motion in relation to another object's motion. The most common example is when an individual in a car is stopped at a traffic light and another car pulls alongside. The individual stopped at the light perceives the second car's forward motion as his or her own rearward motion, resulting in the individual applying more pressure to the brakes than necessary. This illusion can be encountered during flight in situations such as formation flight, hover taxi, or hovering over water or tall grass.
Describe reversible perspective and how to compensate for it
Reversible perspective illusions occur at night when a crewmember perceives another aircraft to be moving away as it is actually approaching. If each aircraft's pilot has the same assumption and the rate of closure is significant, by the time both pilots recognize their misperception it might be too late to avoid a mishap. This illusion is often experienced when a crewmember observes another aircraft flying a parallel course. Aircrew coordination is paramount in these situations, and crewmembers must observe the other aircraft's position lights to determine the direction of flight. "Red on right returning" is an easy way to remember this principle; if the other aircraft's red position light is on the right and its green position light on the left, it is traveling in the opposite direction of the observing aircraft's flight path.
Define scintillation
Scintillation is a faint, random, sparkling effect throughout the image area. Scintillation is a normal characteristic of the image intensifier assembly and should not be confused with emission points. Scintillation is more pronounced during low light conditions and is also referred to as video noise. Reference: TM 11-5855-313-10 Glossary
Explain when scotopic vision is experienced, its characteristics, and what photoreceptor cells are used?
Scotopic vision is experienced in low light environments such as partial moonlight and starlight conditions. Cones become ineffective in these conditions, causing poor resolution in detail. Visual acuity decreases to 20/200 or less, and color perception is lost. A central or night blind spot occurs when cone cell sensitivity is lost. Scotopic vision degrades primary color perception to shades of black, gray, and white unless the light source is of adequate intensity to stimulate the cones. Peripheral vision is used primarily while viewing with scotopic vision.
What are the monocular cues that can assist crewmembers with distance estimation and depth preception?
Several monocular cues assist crewmembers with distance estimation and depth perception. These cues are geometric perspective, retinal image size, aerial perspective, and motion parallax and can be remembered by the mnemonic acronym GRAM.
Some crewmembers may experience a pink, brown or purple afterimage when they remove NVGs. This normal physiological phenomenon is called?
This is called monochromatic adaptation and is a normal physiological phenomenon. The length of time the afterimage remains varies with each individual.
If the Pilot on the controls (P*) NVG fail or indicate impending failure, the P* will _____ _____ _____ and _____ ___ ________ if necessary. During NAP of the earth (NOE) or countour flight, the P* will ______ ___ ______ at a rate that will ensure obstacle avoidance.
announce "goggle failure" transfer the controls begin a climb
This function reduces the voltage to the photocathode when the ANVIS is exposed to bright light sources. This function also protects the image intensifier from damage and enhances its life; however, it also has the effect of lowering resolution.
bright-source protection (BSP)
The concept of _____________ relates to how the cockpit layout design enhances the aviator's ability to acquire information easily and quickly. It is the point the crew station designer specifies as where the aviator's eyes would be. The design of Army aircraft-as it relates to crewmember positions- may degrade the ability to see outside the aircraft or cause difficulty in seeing something inside the aircraft. This is known as DEP violation. Many aircraft have various problems including difficult to read instruments, inadequate lighting, and poorly positioned gauges. Proper _________ is required for DEP. The distance to achieve DEP for a UH-60 is ____ft.
design eye point (DEP) seat adjustment 12 ft
Explain the term cosmetic blemish. If you believe a cosmetic blemish is cause for rejection how should you record the broblem on the maintenance form?
manufacturing imperfections that do not affect image intensifier reliability and are not normally a cause for rejecting an ANVIS. However, some types of blemishes can get worse over time and interfere with the ability to perform the mission. ( IF I C BOB ) IMAGE DISPARITY: This condition may exist when there is a difference in brightness between the two image intensifier assemblies within the same binocular. This can be seen at high or low light levels. This condition is acceptable unless the difference is significant enough to interfere with the operator's ability to perform the mission. FIXED PATTERN NOISE (Honeycomb): This is usually a cosmetic blemish characterized by a faint hexagonal pattern throughout the viewing area that most often occurs at high light levels or when viewing very bright lights. This pattern can be seen in every image intensifier if the light level is high enough. This condition is acceptable as long as the pattern does not interfere with viewing the image and interfere with the ability to perform the mission. IMAGE DISTORTION: This problem is more easily detected in highlight conditions. It is evidenced by vertical objects, such as trees or poles appearing to wave or bend when your head is moved verically or horizontally when looking through the ANVIS. Ground surfaces in the direction of hover may appear to swell or sink. Distortion does not change during the life of an image intensifier. Each image intensifier is screened for distortion before the first use; therefore, no action is required if this condition is present unless it interferes with viewing the image and interferes with the the operator's ability to perform the mission. CHICKEN WIRE: An irregular pattern of dark thin lines in the field-of-view either throughout the image area or in parts of the image area. Under the worst case condition, these lines will form hexagonal or square-wave shaped lines. No action is required if this condition is present unless it interferes with viewing the image and interferes with the operator's ability to perform the mission. BRIGHT SPOTS: These are signal-induced blemishes in the image area caused by a flaw in the film on the MCP. A bright spot is a small, non-uniform, bright area that is constant. Not all bright spots make the ANVIS rejectable. Cup your hand over the lens to block out all light. If the bright spot remains it is considered an Emission Point and an operational defect (refer to Emission Point above). Bright spots usually go away when the light is blocked out. Make sure any bright spot is not simply a bright area in the scene you are viewing. Bright spots are acceptable if they do not interfere with the ability to view the outside scene and the ability to perform the mission. OUTPUT BRIGHTNESS VARIATION: This condition is evidenced by areas of varying brightness in or across the image area. The lower contrast areas do not exhibit distinct lines of demarcation, nor do they degrade image quality. Do not confuse output brightness variation with shading. Output brightness variation is acceptable if it does not interfere with the ability to perform the mission. BLACK SPOTS: These are cosmetic blemishes in the image intensifier or dirt or debris between the lenses. Black spots are acceptable as long as they do not interfere with viewing the image. No action is required if this condition is present unless the spots interfere with the operator's ability to perform the mission.
What are your VFR weather minimums at night above and below 1200' but less than 10,000' MSL in class G and E airspace
nigth G below 1200: 1 SM visibility clear of clouds night G above 1200 but below 10,000': 3 SM visibility 500 ft below, 1000 ft above and 2000 ft horizontal Night E below 10000: 3 SM visibility 500 below, 1000 above and 2000 horizontaly
Artificial light is most pronounced during _______. Tactical empolyment of __________ may be used with either unaided vision or NVG operations.
overcast conditions flares or illumination rounds
According to FM 3-04.203, aviators using NVGs tend to _____________. To avoid obstacles, they must understand the relationship between the NVG's ________, ___________, and _________. This is especially true when flying in a _________.
overfly their capability to see. visual range, forward lighting capability, and airspeed. terrain flight mode.
If IMC is entered with the ________ or _____ ____ on, spatial disorientation may occur
search light or landing light
When only battery power is available, _____ charged batteries will provided ____ min. of power at night assuming all DC electrical equipment is left on and used, including the_________. The battery life will be increased by turning off unnecessary equipment.
80%, 12 minutes, search light
What is an operational defect? Operational defects include:
A defect that relates to the instability of the image intensifier and an indication of instability. If identified, they are an immediate cause for rejecting the ANVIS. The operational defects are: FESE a. flashing, flickering, intermittent operation b. edge glow c. shading d. emission points Reference: tm 11-5855-313-10 pg. 7-3
What is an emission point?
A pinpoint of bright light in the image area that does not vanish when all light is blocked from the objective lens.
You are operating at night in a very large high altitude valley in Afghanistan. As you fly straight and level while maintaining MSL altitude, your AGL altitude starts to slowly decrease. Explain the visual illusion you are experiencing, and what were you unable to recognize about this valley?
Altered planes of reference Altered planes of reference create an inaccurate sense of altitude, attitude, or flight path position in relation to an object so great in size it replaces the horizon as the plane of reference. For example, a pilot approaching a line of mountains might feel the need to climb even though the aircraft's altitude is adequate. The pilot comes to this mistaken conclusion because he or she subconsciously moves the horizon, which helps maintain orientation, to the top of the ridgeline. Without an adequate horizon, the brain attempts to fix a new horizon. Conversely, an aircraft entering a valley that contains a slowly increasing upslope condition might become trapped because the slope can quickly increase and exceed the aircraft's ability to climb above the hill, causing it to crash into the surrounding hills.
Describe the altered planes of reference and how to compensate for it.
Altered planes of reference create an inaccurate sense of altitude, attitude, or flight path position in relation to an object so great in size it replaces the horizon as the plane of reference. For example, a pilot approaching a line of mountains might feel the need to climb even though the aircraft's altitude is adequate. The pilot comes to this mistaken conclusion because he or she subconsciously moves the horizon, which helps maintain orientation, to the top of the ridgeline. Without an adequate horizon, the brain attempts to fix a new horizon. Conversely, an aircraft entering a valley that contains a slowly increasing upslope condition might become trapped because the slope can quickly increase and exceed the aircraft's ability to climb above the hill, causing it to crash into the surrounding hills.
How should the rate of closure and groundspeed be adjusted when performing a VMC approach at night?
Altitude, apparent ground speed, and rate of closure are difficult to estimate at night. Throughout an approach, other crewmembers provide information to the aviator on obstacle avoidance, altitude, airspeed, and approach angle. Maintaining a thorough scan, including the side windows, aids in estimating such information as the rate of closure. If approach is made to tactical lights, lateral movement can be detected by the relative position of the aircraft and lights. Except in blowing snow or dust, night approaches to an unlighted area should be terminated at a hover and followed by a slow vertical descent to the ground
What is ambient light?
Ambient light is any atmospheric light, whether natural or artificial, providing useful illumination for the aircrew. Sources of ambient light include the moon, background illumination, artificial light, and solar light. Regardless of the ambient light source, meteorological conditions affect levels of light.
Describe the factor that aids in determining distance using the aerial prospective: Fading of Colors or Shades
An object viewed through haze, fog, or smoke appears less distinct and at a greater distance than it actually is. Conversely, if atmospheric transmission of light is unrestricted, the object appears more distinct and closer than it actually is.
Describe autokinesis and how to compensate for it.
Autokinesis occurs primarily at night when ambient visual cues are minimal and a small, dim light is seen against a dark background. After about 6 to 12 seconds of visually fixating on the light, an individual perceives movement at up to 20 degrees in any particular direction or in several directions in succession, although there is no actual object displacement. This illusion can cause a pilot to mistake the fixated object for another aircraft. In addition, a pilot flying at night might perceive a relatively stable lead aircraft to be moving erratically when, in fact, it is not. The unnecessary and undesirable control inputs the pilot makes to compensate for the illusory movement result in increased workload and wasted motion at best and an operational hazard at worst.
Describe the false horizon illusion and how to compensate for it.
False horizon illusions occur when a pilot confuses cloud formations with the horizon or ground. A sloping cloud deck can be difficult to perceive as anything but horizontal if it extends any great distance in the pilot's peripheral vision. The pilot might perceive the cloudbank to be horizontal even if it is not horizontal to the ground, causing he or she to fly the aircraft in a banked attitude. This condition is often insidious and goes undetected until the pilot recognizes it, transitions to instruments, and makes necessary corrections. This illusion also might occur if the pilot looks outside after having given prolonged attention to a task inside the cockpit. Confusion can result in the pilot placing the aircraft parallel to the cloudbank.
Describe the fascination (fixation) and how to compensate for it.
Fascination or fixation in flying can be separated into two categories: task saturation and target fixation. Task saturation occurs when crewmembers become so engrossed with a problem or task within the cockpit they fail to properly scan outside the aircraft. Target fixation, commonly referred to as target hypnosis, occurs when crewmembers ignore orientation cues and focus their attention on an object or goal. For example, an attack pilot on a gunnery range might become so intent on hitting a target that he or she forgets to fly the aircraft, causing it to strike the ground, target, or shrapnel.
Describe flicker vertigo and how to compensate for it.
Flicker vertigo is not technically an illusion. However, as most people are aware from personal experience, viewing a flickering light can be both distracting and annoying. Flicker vertigo is created by helicopter rotor blades or airplane propellers interrupting direct sunlight at a rate of 4 to 20 cycles per second. Flashing anticollision strobe lights can produce this effect, especially when an aircraft is in the clouds. Though rare, crewmembers should be aware that photic stimuli (flickering light) at certain frequencies can cause seizures in individuals susceptible to flicker-induced epilepsy.
What are the HUD systems designed to do?
HUD systems are designed to display flight, navigation, aircraft and weapons system information onto the NVG display. It enables an aviator to concentrate his or her vision outside the cockpit while maintaining the ability to view critical information. Depending on the system, the aviator has the ability to determine and display critical information and symbology into his or her FOV and is able to keep eyes outside the cockpit.
When must the ARRIVAL DATA section of the PPC be completed?
If arrival conditions at the destination have increased by 5 degree C or 1000 feet PA or 500 poinds
If illuminatoin is insufficient, how should an aviator perform a takeoff to ensure obstacle clearance?
If illumination is insufficient, the aviator should make an altitude-over-airspeed takeoff until the aircraft reaches an altitude that clears obstacles. Takeoff may be performed from a hover or from the ground. The aircrew should treat visual obstacles, such as shadows, the same as physical obstacles.
Explain shading. Which cosmetic blemish should it not be confuesed with? Describe the two other items as explained in the note (same page) it should not be confused with?
If shading is present, you will not see a fully circular image. Shading is indicative of a dying photocathode caused by a defective vacuum seal of the image intensifier. Shading is a high contrast area with a distinct line of demarcation. Do not confuse shading with output brightness variation or the result of improper OSAP. Reference: tm 11-5855-313-10 pg. 7-3
Describe the factor that aids in determining distance using the retinal image: Increasing or decreasing size of objects.
If the retinal image of an object increases in size, the object is moving closer to the observer. If the retinal image decreases, the object is moving further away. If the retinal image is constant, the object is at a fixed distance.
If there is more than one flicker, what should you scheck before rejecting the goggles for flashing, flickering or intermittent operation?
If there is more than one flicker, check for loose wires, loose battery cap/door, or weak batteries. If the problem cannot be corrected, do not fly with this condition.
If conducting operations where sleep loss is expected, what behavior indicators should be monitored among crewmembers? Can individuals accurately determine their own impairment from sleep loss?
Individuals cannot accurately determine their own impairment from sleep loss. During operations in which sleep loss is expected, crewmembers should closely monitor each other's behavior for indicators of fatigue such as: CHANGES IN MOOD AND SOCIAL INTERACTION Fatigued individuals can become irritable and combative. They also might experience mild depression and withdraw socially. IMPAIRED COMMUNICATION Fatigue impairs a person's abilities to communicate and receive information. Crewmembers might leave out important details in the messages they send to others. They might neglect or misinterpret information they receive. Fatigue also can affect a crewmember's pronunciation, rate of speech, tone, or volume. DIURNAL (CIRCADIAN) RHYTHMS AND FATIGUE Humans have an intrinsic biological clock with a cycle of roughly 24 to 25 hours. Many important body functions such as core body temperature, alertness, heart rate, and sleep cycle occur along these diurnal rhythms. In the typical circadian cycle, performance, alertness, and body temperature: Peak between 0800 and 1200. Drop off slightly between 1300 and 1500. Begin to increase again from 1500 to 2100. Drop off again and fall to a minimum circadian trough between 0300 and 0600. While the body clock can monitor the passage of time, it differs from most clocks in that it is flexible and must be set, or synchronized, before it can accurately predict the timing of events. External synchronizers or "zeitgebers" (a German word that means "time givers") are: Sunrise and sunset. Ambient temperature. Meals and other social cues. CIRCADIAN DESYNCHRONIZATION (JET LAG) Rapid travel between time zones causes the body to resynchronize its diurnal or daytime rhythms to the local geophysical and social time cues. Until intrinsic rhythms are reset, sleep disorders and fatigue will prevail. Traveling eastward shortens the day; westward travel lengthens the day. Consequently, resynchronization occurs much more rapidly when traveling west. Shift work can have effects similar to crossing time zones because of the changes in light exposure and activity times.
What can be done to augment in flight navigation relating to rally terms, projedct ahead, and disorientation?
Navigation, conducted by an aviator, is augmented through information exchanged between aviators and often assisted by nonrated crewmembers (NCM). Rally terms, such as "turn left, stop turn, increase airspeed," and the use of clock positions to identify directions, are typical terms used to guide an aviator on the controls and aid in keeping his or her vision out of the cockpit. Aircrew members should agree on standardized terms identifying terrain features and eliminating regional language variations. This will help eliminate confusion and reduce unnecessary cockpit conversation. The navigating aviator must be able to project far enough ahead of the aircraft to facilitate timely information flow to the flying aviator, specifically, upcoming turns, airspeed and altitude changes, or expected terrain features he or she can assist in identifying. When an aviator becomes disoriented, it should be immediately acknowledged, and the aviator should start the reorientation process. The first step is to locate and identify a prominent feature in the immediate area. If this is not possible or practical, the aviator should attempt to return to the last known position. In a formation flight, if the lead aircraft becomes disoriented, the remaining aircraft should provide assistance. This assistance may be in the form of code words to guide the aircraft back onto course or, if necessary, by assuming the position and duties of lead aircraft. Aircrew members can use an established set of code words to guide the lead aircraft before it becomes disoriented or appears to be deviating off course.
How do you get to the programming and control page of the NVG HUD on the FMS?
ON FMS press MSN fixed functoin key then press appropiate soft keys. MSN --> NVG HUD --> PGM mode
describe the type of geometric prespective: vertical position in the field
Objects or terrain features at greater distances from the observer appear higher on the horizon than those closer to the observer
Discuss the following functions of the collective HUD controls.
Page up Page down Bright or Select (mode dependent) Dim or Deselect (mode dependent) Acknowledge is Z- axis plunge
describe the type of geometric prespective: lindear prespective
Parallel lines such as railroad tracks tend to converge as distance from the observer increases
If the dual contacts on your binocular assembly are dirty what do you use to clean them?
Pencil eraser
Explain when photopic vision is experienced, its characteristics and what photoreceptor cells are used?
Photopic vision is experienced during daylight or under high levels of artificial illumination. Cones concentrated in the fovea centralis are primarily responsible for vision in bright light. Due to the high-level light condition, rod cells are bleached out and become less effective. Sharp image interpretation and color vision are characteristics of photopic vision. The fovea centralis is automatically directed toward an object by a visual fixation reflex. Therefore, under photopic conditions, the eye uses central vision for interpretation, especially in determining details.
How is spatial disorientation affeceted by wearing NVGs?
Rapid head movement, maneuvers requireing large bank angles or rapid attitude changes tend to induce spacial disorientation. (FM 3-04.203 pg.4-18, 4-19)
After practicing VMC approaches to Stinson, you transition over to Cairns AAF, and perform a VMC approach. Your IP tells you that your approach at Cairns was much too high and steep, even though it seemed identical to the approaches you made at stinson. Which visual illusion are you experiencing, and why is this occurring?
Size- distance illusion Size-distance illusions are false perceptions of distance from an object or the ground, created when a crewmember misinterprets an unfamiliar object's size to be the same as an object they are accustomed to viewing. These illusions can occur if visual cues such as a runway or trees are of a different size than expected. A pilot making an approach to a larger, wider runway might perceive the aircraft is too low, while a pilot making an approach to a smaller, narrower runway might perceive the aircraft is too high. A pilot making an approach 25 feet above the trees in Washington State, where the average tree is 100 feet tall, might fly the aircraft dangerously low if trying to make the same approach at Fort Rucker AL, where the average tree height is 30 feet. This illusion also can occur when a crewmember views another aircraft's position lights at night. The observed aircraft will appear further away than before if it suddenly flies into smoke or haze.
Describe the size and distance illusion and how to compensate for it.
Size-distance illusions are false perceptions of distance from an object or the ground, created when a crewmember misinterprets an unfamiliar object's size to be the same as an object they are accustomed to viewing. These illusions can occur if visual cues such as a runway or trees are of a different size than expected. A pilot making an approach to a larger, wider runway might perceive the aircraft is too low, while a pilot making an approach to a smaller, narrower runway might perceive the aircraft is too high. A pilot making an approach 25 feet above the trees in Washington State, where the average tree is 100 feet tall, might fly the aircraft dangerously low if trying to make the same approach at Fort Rucker AL, where the average tree height is 30 feet. This illusion also can occur when a crewmember views another aircraft's position lights at night. The observed aircraft will appear further away than before if it suddenly flies into smoke or haze.
Describe the structural illusion and how to compensate for it.
Structural illusions are caused by the effects of rain, snow, sleet, heat waves, or other visual obscurants. A straight line can appear curved when viewed through heat waves in the desert. A single wingtip light might appear as a double light or in a different location when viewed through rain. Curvature of the aircraft windscreen also can cause structural illusions due to the refraction of light rays as they pass through the windscreen. Pilots must remain aware of the potential for false perceptions when operating in environments containing these obscurants.
Why is terrain interpretation more difficult when the moon is low on the horizon?
Terrain interpretation is more difficult when the moon is low on the horizon. This is due to the lower light level and the shadows caused by the low angle. If low-level flight is conducted toward the moon, with the moon at a low angle, glare may bother the aircrew causing distorted vision and a loss of dark adaptation. During aided flight, glare may also degrade NVD capability. However when the moon is low on the horizon, terrain features or objects on the skyline are more recognizable.
According to the TM 11-5855-313-10, what meteorological and lighting conditions can reduce the effectivness of the anvis?
The ANVIS is less effective when viewing through rain, fog, sleet, snow, smoke, and other reflective materials as well as looking into shadows or darkened areas. (TM 11-5855-313-10 pg 2-1) Not enough light (zero loom) or too much light (direct spot light) also affects performance...
Why might it be beneficial during inadvertent IMC for the P not to completely remove his or her NVG?
The NVG may assist in recovery by allowing th P to see throught thin obscuration that would otherwise prevent him from seeing the landing environoment.
what is the minimum symbology that will be displayed in the declutter mode of operation?
The default declutter mode has a minimum symbology display of: a. Airspeed - No. 25. b. Altitude (MSL) - No. 7. c. Attitude (pitch and roll) - Nos. 1, 5, 6, 20, 26. d. Engine Torque(s) - Nos. 22, 23.
Describe the factor that aids in determining distance using the aerial prospective: Loss of detail or texture
The further an observer is from an object, the less apparent discrete details become.
What is the primary source of natural light at night, what is sky glow, and when tdo stars provide the most background illumination?
The moon is the primary source of natural light at night. Sky glow is a term for the ambient light produced by the sun when it is below the horizon. Stars provide some background illumination, especially on clear nights.
What is the most importatnt consideration when a crewmember has lost visual contact with the formation per the TC 3-04.33?
The most important consideration when a crewmember has lost visual contact with te formation is to announce loss of visual contact to the other member of the crew and teh rest of the flight and reorient. Except for enemy contact, all mission requirements are subordinate to this action.
Describe the factor that aids in determining distance using the retinal image: Known size of objects
The nearer an object is to the observer, the larger its retinal image. By experience, the brain learns to estimate the distance of familiar objects by the size of their retinal image. A structure projects a specific angle on the retina based on its distance from the observer. If the angle is small, the observer judges the structure to be a great distance away, while a larger angle indicates the structure is close. To use this cue, the observer must know the object's actual size and have prior visual experience with it.
What is the night blind spot, and how can it and the negative effects of scotopic vision be overcome?
The night blind spot should not be confused with the day blind spot. The night blind spot occurs when the fovea becomes inactive in low light conditions and involves an area from 5 to 10 degrees wide in the center of the visual field. An object viewed directly at night might not be seen due to the night blind spot; if the object is detected, it will fade away when stared at longer than 2 seconds. The size of the night blind spot increases as the distance between the eyes and object increases. Therefore, the night blind spot can hide larger objects as the distance between the observer and object increases.
The OSAP procedure is used for what purpose?
The optimal sight picture occurs when the optical axes of the ANVIS is aligned with your visual line-of-sight and the ANVIS' eyepieces are at the maximum distance from your eyes that still allows you to see the intensified image full field-of-view.
describe the type of geometric prespective: apparent foreshortening
The shape of an object or terrain feature appears elliptical (oval and narrow) when viewed from a distance at both higher and lower altitudes. As the distance to the object or terrain feature decreases, the apparent perspective changes to its true shape or form. When flying at lower altitudes and at greater distances, crewmembers might not see objects clearly. If the mission permits, pilots should gain altitude and decrease distance from the viewing area to compensate for this perspective. Once altitude increases and distance between the aircraft and viewing area decreases, the viewing field widens and enlarges so objects become apparent.
The function of Automatic Brightness Control (ABC) is?
Under high light conditions, the Automatic Brightness Controll (ABC) automatically reduces the voltages to the micro-channel plate (MCP) to keep the image intensifier's brightness within a set limit.
According to AWR 1726r12, what are the warnings and note regarding the position lights?
WARNINGS: When flying in close proximity formation flight, the position lights are extremely bright and create a "halo" effect around the aircraft. This halo effect makes it extremely difficult to see the preceding aircraft in formation flight. The IR position light is mounted on the right side of the tail position light. In this position, aircraft flying staggered left formation flight cannot see the IR position light. NOTE: The bright and dim switch does not change the intensity of the lights.
Describe the factor that aids in determining distance using the retinal image: Overlapping Contours or Interpposition of Object
When objects overlap, the overlapped object is further away. For example, an object partially concealed by another object is behind the object concealing it. Crewmembers must be especially conscious of this cue when making an approach for landing at night. Lights disappearing or flickering in the landing area should be treated as barriers and the flight path adjusted accordingly.
Discuss the following functions on the HUD page of the FMS.
under c
What are your three types of sesor systems? And which is considered the most reliable?
under c
