The Wobblies

Abstract

The push-pull effect (PPE) is not a new phenomenon. In 1953, Dr von Beckh conducted research on the effects of transitions from negative to positive Gs and discovered that G-transitions exerted a tremendous effect on the cardiovascular system. In his study, pilots dove from about 3,000 m to about 2,200 m and pulled out of the dive rapidly. The maneuver produced a positive acceleration (hypergravity) of about +6.5 Gz and resulted in several pilots experiendng chest pains, pronounced disorientation, generalized discomfort, and ultimately blacking out. Immediately following the pull-out, the aircraft was flown in a parabola to produce negative G (hypogravity). The results of this maneuver were equally unpleasant, resulting in pilots having to strain harder and blacking out earlier. The results didn't surprise the doctor, who explained the reduced Gtolerance and greater strain as a logical consequence of the transition from hypergravity to hypogravity. There was no record of what the pilots thought of being subjected to the tortuous maneuvers.