The novice astronauts are trained in aircraft safety which includes ejection, parachute, and survival instruction. A Gulfstream II aircraft, which has been modified to simulate the handling of a Shuttle, is also used to train pilot astronauts. The astronauts are given a range of basic science, math, and technology courses. The astronauts receive training in a mock-up of the Space Shuttle. Each astronaut must also learn to function in weightless environments, and possibly even learn to perform a space walk.
Advanced training follows the basic training program.
The advanced training program consists of sixteen different courses covering all Shuttle-related crew training requirements. The advanced training continues even after a crew has been given a flight assignment. Starting at about ten weeks before a mission, the astronaut team starts to simulate the mission with the Earth-bound flight control team who will assist them in their flight. Often the commander is also the pilot of the Shuttle. Commanders are responsible for the vehicle, the crew, mission success, and safety.