SPACEPHOTOS

This 'fish-eye' view illustrates NASA's Multifunction Electronic Display Subsystem (MEDS), otherwise known as 'glass cockpit.' It represents a number of important modifications that have been accomplished on the Orbiter's flight deck. This photo is actually a recent one of the fixed base Space Shuttle mission simulator in the Johnson Space Center's (JSC) Mission Simulation and Training Facility. The fixed base simulator has been outfitted with MEDS to be used by flight crews for training. The Space Shuttle Atlantis is the only Orbiter so far outfitted with MEDS and will fly with the new display system for the first time late this year on STS-101. All of the Orbiters will eventually be outfitted with the new system, which enhances safety on the Orbiter by providing multiple backup display functions and brings the Space Shuttle cockpit displays up to date with technology that is now common in many commercial airliners.