Path: utzoo!utgpu!news-server.csri.toronto.edu!cs.utexas.edu!sdd.hp.com!hplabs!hpl-opus!hpnmdla!hpmwtd!mikep
From: mikep@hpmwtd.HP.COM (Mike Powell)
Newsgroups: sci.space.shuttle
Subject: Re: Computer Controlled Landing?
Message-ID: <1370008@hpmwmat.HP.COM>
Date: 22 Mar 91 03:55:18 GMT
References: <1077@uncw.UUCP>
Organization: HP Santa Rosa Site (NMD MTA MWTD). - Santa Rosa, Ca.
Lines: 17


	
	Reading this thread, I recalled the perfect landing of the Soviet
	Shuttle... unmanned and under computer control.  It was
	simply amazing to watch (even on tv).  I was impressed....

	Not to say that the extra 'touch' a experienced human can provide
	isn't important... I believe that it could be VITAL under
	certain circumstances....   I think that the computer SHOULD
	be able to land the shuttle... just in case something goes 'wrong'
	and the pilots are unable to perform the landing.  I recall
	reading about Mike Collins' experience during a Gemini spacewalk
	where some chemical vapors got into his helmet and blinded him
	for a period.... a similar situation might occurr in the shuttle
	cabin.    

	-Mike-