Designing for Virtual Windows in a Deep Space Habitat

Abstract

This paper discusses configurations and test analogs toward the design of a virtual window capability in a DeepSpace Habitat. Long-duration space missions will require crews to remain in the confines of a spacecraft for extended periods of time, with possible harmful effects if a crewmember cannot cope with the small habitable volume. Virtual windows expand perceived volume using a minimal amount of image projection equipment and computing resources, and allow a limited immersion in remote environments. Uses for the virtual window include: live or augmented reality views of the external environment; flight deck, piloting, observation, or other participation in remote missions through live transmission of cameras mounted to remote vehicles; pre-recorded background views of nature areas, seasonal occurrences, or cultural events; and pre-recorded events such as birthdays, anniversaries, and other meaningful events prepared by ground support and families of the crewmembers. Nomenclature AES = NASA Advanced Exploration Systems D-RATS = NASA Desert Research and Technology Studies field analog tests DSH = Deep Space Habitat ECLSS = Environmental Control and Life Support System EML-2 = Earth-Moon LaGrange Point 2 EVA = Extra-Vehicular Activity HDU = Habitat Demonstration Unit MMSEV = Multi-Mission Space Exploration Vehicle NASA = National Aeronautics and Space Administration NWSE = north, west, south, east PEM = Pressurized Excursion Module TRWS = Tele-Robotics Intravehicular Work Station