[citation needed] A typical mission starts on the launch pad at KSC right after the astronauts have entered the cockpit.
Most of the time is spent on orbit where the user is expected to perform the mission as described in the briefing screen and as instructed by the on-screen checklists and audio communications from the MCC.
Landing is performed manually following Houston instructions and realistic guidance and navigation information presented on the 9 forward panels MFD and the fully collimated HUD.
In the easiest difficulty mode, the simulator indicates individual switches with flashing arrows, in addition to the checklists.
[citation needed] The user can zoom into various panels in a 2D view or directly select the various systems from the main menu, in real time and press buttons, turn knobs, flip switches as the mission requires.