Quantum3D IDX 7000 Image Generator Allows Virgin Galactic To Train The World's First Spaceline Pilots

It makes sense that pilots training to fly spacecraft that aren't yet flying on a regular basis will need some simulator time to get them ready to carry passengers to the fringe of space. To provide that training, Virgin Galactic has ordered  Quantum3D's six-channel Independence IDX 7000 image generator, which will be used to train pilots on spaceship equipment and command.

"Our first priority in sub-orbital space exploration is safety, and by leveraging Quantum3D's IDX 7000 with the most advanced image generation, we are giving our pilots the best training available for space exploration," said Keith Colmer, senior test pilot, Virgin Galactic (pictured). "Quantum3D created an impressive high quality database, including imagery of our spaceship models, buildings, hangars, and spaceport to provide the most realistic simulation possible for our pilots, which will assist in creating a space program to support flying almost anyone to space and back safely."

The IDX 7000 offers enhanced performance and capabilities to deliver Virgin Galactic a versatile and powerful simulation and training platform that can be setup in a dedicated room or easily transported, to meet a range of onsite, on-location and mobile training needs. Combined with Mantis shader-based real-time scene management software with geo-specific, worldwide synthetic environments, Virgin Galactic will be able to train their pilots in a variety of simulations, from instrument/cockpit familiarization to a full range of special effects, sensors, weather, and lighting, along with mission-critical functions such as height-above-terrain and line-of-sight intersection testing.

"Virgin Galactic is on the cusp of a new frontier – making sub-orbital space accessibility a reality," said Wade Guindy, president, Quantum3D. "We are proud to have Virgin Galactic using our IDX 7000 image generator and Mantis software to train their pilots for the future of consumer space travel."

FMI: www.virgingalactic.com, www.quantum3d.com