VASO
The Virtual Aeronautics and Space Organization is a virtual space agency currently being developed by fireballs619, with contributions from other forum members.
Mission Statement
The Virtual Aeronautics and Space Organization (VASO) looks to provide an organized, realistic environment where both novice and advanced pilots can enhance their Orbiter experience, and where exceptional pilots can be recognized for their skill and achievements. VASO will accomplish this by having a structured management system, and an equally structured promotion system, in place.
Management Structure
VASO's management structure relies heavily on the 'class' system, of which there are currently four:
- Training Class
- DG class
- XR class
- Shuttle Class
Each of the classes have three ranks, with the exception of the training class. These three ranks show the current rank of the pilot, as well as making up management systems. The three ranks are Novice Pilot, Intermediate Pilot, and Class Leader. Of these ranks, only class leaders are part of the management committee, which help the CEO make decisions. This committee is needed for many tasks, such as giving promotions, assigning pilots to missions, making sure missions are correctly executed and reported, and giving infractions. Without them, VASO would not be able to function. There may be multiple class leaders to a single class, depending on the amount of pilots are in that class. Aside from leaders, the position of a pilot in their class does not affect their management status. For instance, and intermediate pilot does not have more voice in management than a novice pilot, nor does a intermediate pilot of a more advanced class have more voice in management than a intermediate pilot of a less advanced class.
Class leaders are picked by the CEO and other class leaders, based on their knowledge of operations, the way they interact with other users, and their willingness to contribute to VASO operations. Their actual skill as a pilot is not taken into consideration. If pilots feel a class leader is abusing their power, or not performing their job adequately, they can create a petition to have them replaced. If a class leader is removed from office, they are returned to their previous rank in the promotion system.
Classes
VASO currently consists of four classes.
Training Class
This class is the only one to have only two ranks, 'Applicant' and 'Training Class Leader'. It serves as a proficiency test for all new applicants, and they must pass before being allowed access to the DG class. This class has only one vessel, the Northrop T-38. Applicants must use this craft to pass a qualification test and submit a report for review afterward. This ensures two things- That the pilot knows and understands the basics of flight, and that they are able to write a acceptable report.
DG Class
The Delta Glider Class (DG Class) is the first class where pilots are allowed to preform orbital or suborbital missions for VASO. The Delta Glider class is designed to provide an atmosphere were the pilot can learn about VASO procedures and missions, without having to worry about preforming complex tasks or missions. All of the missions available to DG class pilots are made to ensure that pilots of all skills can complete them, and eventually advance on to the XR class. There are two vessels in the DG class, the Delta Glider and the Delta Glider IV. The Delta Glider serves as the vessel for the Novice Pilot, as it is a good introduction into space flight. The Intermediate Pilot vessel, the Delta Glider IV, prepares pilots for their entry into the XR, because it has advanced autopilots.
XR Class
The XR class contains more advanced vessels, and the missions will truly test the pilot's skill. These missions deal mainly with passenger transportation, launching satellites into LEO, and servicing stations and bases. These missions are designed to introduce the technical aspects of spaceflight, and require more precision in the pilot's maneuvering. The vessels in the XR class, the XR1 and the XR2, are a step above those in the DG class. They provide a more realistic experience while flying, but provide a greater sense of accomplishment when completed. The XR1, which is similar to the Delta-Glider, though much more complicated, serves as a great introduction into the XR class. The XR2 not only prepares pilots for the more complicated vessels in the shuttle class, but also requires them to hone their skills as a astronaut.
Shuttle Class
The Shuttle Class is currently the most advanced class in the VASO system. It focuses on mainly constructing space stations, extra-terrestrial bases, and making upgrades to existing facilities. These missions are written for pilots who skill in Orbiter is advanced enough to perform complex operations. There are again two vessels in this class; the XR5 and the Space Shuttle. The XR5 is the first vessel gained by a pilot in this class, and missions using it teach them about transporting cargo and building stations. The XR5 also helps to teach the precision needed to pilot the Space Shuttle. The Space Shuttle, the last vessel acquired by a pilot currently, requires a truly skilled pilot to fly it properly. Completing a shuttle mission takes much practice, and is an indicator of a pilots skill.
Possible Future Classes
As VASO expands, there may be new vessel additions to the current classes. These additions will be voted on by the members of VASO, and will be implemented into the program. In some cases, a new class may be formed, to make room for expanding an expanding vessel fleet. One considered future class is the Vertical Launch Class, but this will not be implemented until after commencement.
Bases
VASO currently has three primary bases, not including those used for emergency landings.
Wideawake International
This is VASO's main launch base, as well as its headquarters. This airport/spaceport has all necessary facilities to serve as the main launch location, and its domestic airport can be used to transfer supplies between bases. While most space plane launches and landings will take place here, vertical launches will not.
This location will serve as the primary vertical launch site, as well as the location for new vessel testing. Landings will not take place here, unless it is not possible to land at Ascension Island or Edward’s Air force Base.
Edward's Air Force Base
This will be the primary location for atmospheric test or training flights, as well as a landing facility for manned missions. It will not serve as a launch location.