Aeroscreen

An Aeroscreen is a transparent protective windshield installed in front of the driver's cockpit in open-wheel race cars to shield them from flying debris and impacts during high-speed racing.

Unlike regular cars that have closed cockpits, open-wheel race cars like those in IndyCar leave the driver's head and upper body exposed to the air. This design makes cars faster but puts drivers at risk from objects that can fly around the track at dangerous speeds, such as pieces of other cars, tires, or small debris.

The Aeroscreen consists of a curved, transparent screen made from specially strengthened materials that can withstand high-impact collisions. The screen is typically made from laminated polycarbonate, the same type of strong plastic used in bulletproof glass, and is reinforced with a titanium frame for extra strength.

IndyCar was the first major racing series to adopt the Aeroscreen system in 2020. The device works alongside other safety features like the halo, which is a metal bar that arcs over the driver's head. Together, these systems significantly improve driver safety without completely blocking their view of the track.

One challenge with aeroscreens is that they can make the cockpit hotter for drivers since they reduce airflow. To solve this, modern aeroscreens include special ventilation systems to keep drivers cool. They also feature anti-fogging technology, similar to what's used in aircraft, to prevent the screen from becoming cloudy during races.

During pit stops, racing teams can quickly remove tear-off layers from the outside of the aeroscreen to give drivers a clean, clear view if the screen gets dirty from oil, rubber, or other track debris. This system is similar to the tear-off visors that drivers use on their helmets.

The introduction of aeroscreens represents a major advancement in motorsport safety, providing crucial protection while allowing drivers to maintain the visibility they need to race competitively at speeds exceeding 200 miles per hour.