Spatial Disorienation And Illusions

Question 1

Definition of Spacial disorientation

Answer 1

The inability to determine position or relative motion, commonly occurring during periods of challenging visibility, since vision is the dominant sense for orientation.

Question 2

Vestibular System consists of what organs?

Answer 2

3 semicircular canals which sense pitch, roll, and yaw
2 otolith organs, sense acceleration

Question 3

Which system consists of nerves in the skin, muscles, and joints

Answer 3

The somatosensory system

Question 4

The Leans

Answer 4

After leveling the wings following a long turn, the pilot may feel that the aircraft is banked in the opposite direction of the turn. The will start to lean.

Question 5

Coriolis Illusion

Answer 5

Causes a false sensation of acceleration or turning on a different axes

Question 6

Graveyard Spiral

Answer 6

A pilot in a long prolonged coordinated constant rate turn may overtime feel as if they are no longer turning which may cause a graveyard spiral

Question 7

Somatogravic illusion

Answer 7

Rapid acceleration stimulates the inner ear which may create a sensation of tumbling backwards which could lead to a higher pitch angle. Deceleration can cause the opposite effect.

Question 8

Inversion Illusion

Answer 8

An abrupt change from climb to straight and level may cause the pilot to feel like they are tumbling backwards

Question 9

Elevator Illusion

Answer 9

An abrupt upward vertical acceleration may create the illusion of climbing, everything is due to fluid movement