Not only did Systems Technology, Inc give SOFIC goers some hands on experience with their free fall simulator, but they also exhibited what is in my opinion, the hidden jewel of the show; a Jumpmaster Simulator.
Parachuting is inherently dangerous. That’s why they pay military jumpers $150 per month. Jumpmasters ensure that parachutists conduct correct actions in the aircraft and exit safely. But they don’t receive any extra pay even though they expose themselves to additional hazards in the performance of their duties as seen in this video of a Jumpmaster from the 5th SFG(A) conducting a ramp jump. Fortunately, he wasn’t injured when his reserve parachute deployed, sucking him out of the aircraft.
The Systems Technology simulator relies on fused reality. The Jumpmaster wears goggles that let him see the interior of the ramp simulator. But when the Jumpmaster looks at the blue screen area, a virtual horizon with sky and terrain is projected into his vision.
The simulator allows the Jumpmaster to master procedures in a safe environment and develop skill at spotting without expending valuable flying hours. Monitors can also be configured to see what the Jumpmaster is seeing and virtual parachutists can be added to the mix.
