Along with providing voice communications, oxygen masks give each aircrew member his or her own supply of oxygen to breathe when the aircraft flies at high altitudes, where the air is thinner and contains less oxygen than on the ground. The mask receives oxygen through a strong flexible hose connected to an on-board pressurized oxygen tank and flow regulator system. NASA regulations require every person flying in unpressurized aircraft above 10,000 feet or at night to use oxygen, so properly working masks are necessary on most flights at Dryden. Two special visors are also built into helmets and can be lowered over the eyes individually. The tinted visor also provides the same measure of eye protection as the clear visor during emergencies.
Helmets are custom-fitted to each crewmember.
During the fitting process, a thick plastic liner that slides into the helmet shell is softened with heat and placed on the individual's head. As the liner cools, it conforms to the shape of the person's head for a permanent custom fit. A properly fitted helmet assures comfort and safety during all flight regimes. All helmets at Dryden are carefully checked by branch personnel every 30 days. Visors are checked for perfect visibility and replaced if they have been scratched.