Who is typically tasked with monitoring and managing a vehicle’s complex internal systems on a mission?
Answer
Flight Engineer
In mission architectures that define distinct operational roles, the Flight Engineer is assigned the crucial technical responsibility of maintaining the spacecraft's operational health. This involves closely monitoring and actively managing the vehicle’s complex internal systems, which encompass life support, power distribution, environmental controls, and propulsion subsystems that are not directly managed by the Pilot during flight phases. This role is vital for ensuring the long-term viability and safety of the vehicle during transit and while in orbit, focusing internally rather than on external experiments or primary vehicle control.
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