Cockpit Design

 
(ST:The Magazine)  (ST:Encyclopedia)
Cutaways of the Delta Flyer's cockpit.

CONN STATION

The Delta Flyer's cockpit is far larger than any standard shuttlecraft. The pilot's station is situated at the most forward point of the cockpit, giving the helmsman an unrivaled view of the exterior. To the front and sides of this position, there are a number of readouts and control surfaces, including a cluster just above the head of the pilot that is set into the supports of the transparent canopy. There are also several 'retro' control panels to the right of the pilot, according to Tom Paris, this allows you to 'feel' how the ship responds in flight. These are based on early 20th century designs, with two-way toggle switches, analogue dials, and knobs, that are functional as well as aesthetically pleasing.

OPS STATION

The ops station is located behind the pilot to the left on the upper level. The ops station reports reports sensor information, displays the condition of the shields, relays data on the secondary systems, provides the prelaunch countdown, and controls the tractor beam and transporter.

TACTICAL STATION

The tacticle station is located behind the pilot to the right on the upper level. The tactical station is used to control the weapons and defensive systems; the photon missles are loaded from here. This station is also used to record data into the ships computer and send communications.

ENGINEERING STATION

The engineering station is located at the back of the cockpit facing the aft-starboard direction. The engineering station is used to monitor engines and other essential ship systems and functions. Many of its functions are duplicated at the conn and ops stations.

OTHER INFORMATION

In the very center of the cockpit their is a small ramp leading from the upper level of the cockpit to the lower one. Also next to the conn station on the lower level there is a station that is used for other conn functions but it does not need to be manned. There is extra seating here for a person that could man the position though.

New Delta Flyer

The New Delta Flyer does have a different cockpit design than the original. At the helm console, there are now two joysticks (a.ka. Manual Steering Columns) that are used to control the ships movement. Also, the New Delta Flyer has orange coverings over all of the consoles in the cockpit and also orange coverings over the back of all four chairs.