Human FactorsSpatial Disorientation
Somatogravic Illusion
The somatogravic illusion is a sensory illusion where rapid linear acceleration is incorrectly perceived by the vestibular system as a pitch-up attitude. Conversely, rapid deceleration can be perceived as a pitch-down attitude, particularly when external visual cues are poor.
Key Points
- •Caused by linear acceleration stimulating the otolith organs in the inner ear.
- •Often occurs during take-off or go-around at night or in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC).
- •Can lead a pilot to incorrectly push the nose down in response to the false pitch-up sensation, risking controlled flight into terrain.
Exam Relevance
Commonly tested in human factors to ensure pilots trust their flight instruments rather than their inner ear during acceleration or deceleration.
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