A system, handheld devices, and methods for space equipment tracking and control. The system tracks and controls items, people and their interactions. The handheld mobile wireless device provides item specific information, instruction, and supervision. A plurality of handheld devices is configured to be used by different people, and communicate with a central database. A handheld device comprises a camera for scanning an image of an item of space equipment, a display for displaying information, and a wireless network connection to the database for sending and receiving data. The system recognizes the item of space equipment and identifies a person. The database includes information regarding people and their roles, permissions, and authorized or assigned tasks; space equipment and tools; item specific instructions; and the handheld devices. An observer, or the system, can monitor the performance of the tasks, and provide corrective feedback.