March 3rd, 2003
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Ken LaFleur and I spent Sunday working on the CAD model of the orbiter.  We installed the cockpit windows into the design, since I had a revelation of sorts.  While both the X-33 and X-38 vehicles were designed to be 100% autonomous, U.S. spacecraft have always had the option for manual, human control.  To not have this manual ability is an unnecessary risk in a program that history shows is risky enough as it is.

To allow human control, the pilot needs to be able to see where he is going, and the most reliable way to do that are windows.  They provide the best range of view, allow for depth perception, and cannot brake or stop functioning due to a computer malfunction or power failure.  In addition to the cockpit windows, I will also have windows at the top of the vehicle to allow for manual docking, but those, for obvious reasons, can only be installed after the actual docking module is.  Alas, the docking module for another day.

Over the coming week Ken and I will continue work on the various aspects of the CAD model so that I can provide visual demonstrations of the major events during a typical mission during my presentation. 

This project is dedicated to the crew of STS-107.

May we learn from our mistakes and improve the safety of manned spaceflight.