The commander takes charge of the Shuttle's flight from the beginning of its mission to its return, so that undergoes training on all aspects of the Shuttle system. The pilot receives training particularly in the electronics system and attitude control systems. The pilot is expected to help in dealing with unexpected situations, having training for emergency situations such as a breakdown during launch or landing.
Pilots usually have one or two flights before they are promoted to a commander's post.
They carry out extravehicular activities and release or retrieve satellites. The astronaut designated MS2 sits right behind the commander and pilot at the time of launch and landing, and is expected to assist as the flight engineer in case of emergency situation.