Implementation of the cFS framework for the development of software in aerospace missions: first application in an undergraduate program in Mexico

Abstract

Abstract In recent years, the development of space missions with nanosatellites has had rapid growth, coupled with it, nanosatellite technology development including On Board Computer (OBC) and custom payloads. However, there are many difficulties to build satellites with specific purposes, such as severely limited resources and the development of software. In this paper, we propose using NASA’s open-source Core Flight System (cFS) as the framework for software development in a space mission led by undergraduate students. By the comparison of viable options to develop the flight software, the advantages of using cFS are established. Furthermore, we also discuss some practical challenges in the deployment of flight software using cFS.