Journey Into the Black
by Claire Greiner

Black Sky Training is sponsoring a suborbital flight simulator. As part of the Orbital Commerce Project, the program offers a preview of the effort to bring space flight beyond NASA’s efforts. Get a taste of the greatest thrill known to man (landing). Fly, (or crash yourself) for a few minutes in the cockpit, and get some Bawls mints. If you really want to be an astronaut when you grow up, you can enter to win a place in their training program—culminating in a solo flight.

Co-owner Bryan Athan patiently guides participants through the controls and the objectives of the simulator. Use a light hand, remember which way is down, and which is up! If you have a flight simulator on your computer, we recommend a couple runs on it before waiting in line. While you are waiting, you can view other participants’ reactions to the sim. There is no charge for your session. The lines are sure to get long, but the experience is worth at least one attempt.

Exit the Hyatt at street level, and you will find the simulator in a big black trailer to the left. Orbital Commerce Project t-shirts are also available if you want a souvenir.