With the split view for scenery and cockpit dials, a bigger
and farther away scenery view enhances the feeling of flight
considerably. Using a projector for scenery is relatively simple.
I have done experiments with both SVGA and XGA native resolution LCD type
projectors. As a screen I used non-transparent white curtain sheet.

Due to confined space at the attic, the screen size was limited to 2m wide x
1.4m high. Viewpoint was 2.5m from screen. At this distance, I found the
pixel size of SVGA projector is still acceptable, although XGA is preferred.
The projector was mounted behind me in the rooftop area, far enough not to
be disturbed by the fan noise. Note that most projectors throw a beam in an
upward angle when sitting flat. In a ceiling mounted setup like above, the
projector must be mounted upside down. In this way no keystone adjustment is
needed. Most projectors will have an option to get the screen reversed when
mounted upside down.
Simpit and beam are positioned such that they just don't touch. Screen
size was fine-tuned with the projector zoom function. The older projectors
(like mine) need a rather long throw distance for a certain screen size.
Newer projectors have shorter throw distance. This can be good when space is
limited, but it could mean that the projector must be mounted just above
your head for example on a mount behind your chair). Fan noise in this case
can be annoying.


The feeling of flight is enhanced considerable when using a projector.
With a projector setup like mine, there are however some disadvantages: