MINSK, 21 April (BelTA) - Ivan Bucha, Deputy Head of the Department of Aerospace Activities of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, spoke about the selection of cosmonauts and their preparation for a spaceflight in a new episode of the V Teme [On Point] project on BelTA’s YouTube channel.
“Preparation for a spaceflight includes theoretical and practical components. Each astronaut must learn to use the equipment that is on the spaceship and ISS. It is not enough to know how to use it, it is important not to do harm. Theoretical training is followed by practical exercises,” Ivan Bucha said.
The experiments, which were included in the scientific program of the Belarusian cosmonaut, were practiced even before her departure to the Cosmonaut Training Center, the representative of the National Academy of Sciences said.
Ivan Bucha also spoke about the centrifuge tests, which is the final stage in the cosmonaut selection process. “Initially we had six candidates for the spaceflight, and they were sent to the training center in December 2022. They approached the centrifuge as a final test. Those who reach it have every opportunity to become a flight candidate,” he emphasized.
The NASB representative added that the load in the centrifuge was 4G and 8G: “This means the person experiences the load of as much as four- and eight-time their own weight, respectively.”
In his words, the centrifuge examines many different influences on a potential cosmonaut. For example, the centrifuge tests the candidate’s peripheral vision - the wider its angle, the better. In addition, under a high g-force, candidates are given commands to test their ability to perform the tasks during the flight. A certain text is also read to the candidate who needs to repeat it after leaving the centrifuge.
