US DoD human-rated centrifuge reaches full operational capability

The U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory’s 711th Human Performance Wing celebrated the full operational capability of the only human-rated centrifuge in the Department of Defense during a ribbon-cutting ceremony this month at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.

The centrifuge lets Air Force students experience forces up to nine times the normal force of gravity (9Gs) to teach the effects of G-forces on human physiology and measure the students’ ability to counteract and prevent G-induced loss of consciousness.

Approximately 1,200 Air Force students including fighter pilots, aircrew members, flight surgeons and aerospace physiologists are expected to receive centrifuge training every year, beginning on October 1, 2018.

The centrifuge is unique in that it lets all three cockpits link with the control room to create a virtual battle space, according to Brig. Gen. Mark Koeniger, 711th Human Performance Wing commander, who says “With the extreme performance that is possible in our aircraft today, it is paramount that we provide the best training possible for these aircrew members. This centrifuge will do just that.”