Centrifuge Training?

Question

Are there any Air Force pilots out there that have undergone centrifuge training?
Whats it like?, does it hurt?

Answer 1

I took centrifuge training at NAS Lemoore, California, in 1998.

We spent a couple of hours in the classroom on theory and the proper technique for the anti-G straining maneuver. We then went to the parariggers to have our G-suits properly fitted; all of ours had become too loose. Then we went to ride the centrifuge.

It is a little enclosed cockpit mock up at the end of a long, rotating arm. The arm is connected to a big, big electric motor that can accelerate the system at G onset rates approximating our best jets (over 20 Gs per second).

The aircrew inside must then follow a series of profiles, including light and heavy G loads, rapid onset and slow onset, sustained and spiking G loads. The aircrew can choose to control his own G loading by pulling on the stick, or he can let the instructor in the booth "fly" for him.

Riding the centrifuge, in my opinion, hurt much more than flying in my jet. Perhaps it was because I knew when the jet was turning and could begin to strain early, or perhaps because the adrenalin is pumping inside the real jet. I never felt tired or in pain inside the F-14, but the centrifuge hurt (the blood pooled in my legs and butt and gave me "G-sels," a kind of G-induced hickey) and wore me out (I was breathing hard and covered in sweat).

Answer 2

First you read the lesson plan about what is going to happen. there are different types of training.
second you practice the techniques on how to 'stay awake' longer.
third the day arrives. when you start you are supprised on how heavy your arms are as you reach for the control buttons.
last you get tunnel vision and go to sleep. the techniques helped you make it a couple more g's but you got tired everyone goes out.

Answer 3

It is not injurious, per se, but it's certainly uncomfortable.

Blood drains from your head, pooling in your torso and legs, and you pass out. I cannot imagine this is a pleasant sensation (though passing out might afford some relief).