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Artemis Missions

Suit Training Simulator

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NASA instructors carry the immense responsibility of training astronauts to operate and manage the suit during missions. To achieve this, they use a simulator that replicates potential malfunctions in the suit's system, requiring astronauts to resolve issues using the Display and Control Unit (DCU) located on the chest. I designed the software used by both instructors and astronauts, creating a digital replica of the hardware.

Since the 3D models could not be shared, I made all the vector drawings from scratch.

*Due to the proprietary nature of my work, I can only showcase selected snippets of my design process.

Please note that these designs differ from the final delivered versions.

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Characteristics of the UX Design:

  • User Personas and User Journeys

At the start of each project, I collaborate with researchers to hold extensive meetings, establishing close contact with end users and ensuring their involvement throughout my design process. Feedback loops keep the design aligned with their needs, while user personas and journeys guide my decisions.

  • Skeuomorphism

Mirroring physical design improves usability and creates a seamless connection between digital and real-world systems. This approach enables astronauts to learn how to operate the hardware without the inconvenience of putting on the suit.

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Aligning the UI with the Hardware

  • Real-Time Feedback

The software instantly reflects changes triggered by physical hardware inputs or movements, allowing users to clearly see and understand the connection between their actions and the system's response.

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  • SIM Malfunctions

Before each training session, the instructor manually selects the malfunctions that will be addressed during the training. Below are some of the iterations I designed for the UX of this process.

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DCU top view

Instructor can select multiple malfunctions beforehand

Malfunctions timeline, allowing users to edit

and delete entries

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The instructor can review malfunctions before injecting them into the system

Instructor can manually enter

parameters

History of SIM malfunctions

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Another view for the malfunction

timeline

  • Top and Front View

The switch placement was tested extensively with trainers, experienced astronauts, and novices to refine the layout and accommodate varying needs. Additionally, the drawing illustrates key dynamic elements: the light turning on, the gauge needle moving, and the text on the screen updating in real-time. These subtle details are what make the design truly effective.

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dcu final top.png
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