Data Handling Subsystem Research Articles

Implementing Spacecraft Autonomy

Autonomy is used on spacecraft for minimizing operational cost and providing onboard failure response. System studies have been performed to provide spacecraft design criteria. This paper presents the design drivers and recommended design criteria for the Data Handling Subsystem (DHS). The impact of interfacing spacecraft subsystems, as well as alternate solutions, is discussed. The importance of establishing detail processing requirements through a Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) is addressed and related to various spacecraft computer capabilities. A prioritized list of DHS design topics is included.

Computer-Controlled Aerospace Ground Equipment for the AOSO Communications and Data-Handling Subsystem

Texas Instruments is presently engaged in design and development of the communication and data-handling subsystem (CDHS) and the associated aerospace ground equipment (AGE) for the Advanced Orbiting Solar Observatory (AOSO). This paper describes the AGE which will be used to test, monitor, exercise, and troubleshoot the CDHS. The observatory-class satellites are very complex and have sophisticated communications and data-handling equipment. The increase in complexity of satellite equipment has resulted in increased demands on the test capability of the checkout equipment. A computer-controlled checkout system has been selected as a result of an analysis of the satellite test requirements. By utilizing a general-purpose computer which controls special equipment designed for the AOSO, the requirement for a rapid, versatile checkout system has been met. This system is described in the following paragraphs.

The Communication and Data-Handling Subsystem for the Advanced Orbiting Solar Observatory

This paper describes the communications and data-handling subsystem (CDHS) for the Advanced Orbiting Solar Observatory (AOSO). The CDHS is presently being developed by Texas Instruments Incorporated for Republic Aviation. Goddard Space Flight Center is the responsible NASA agency. The paper includes a detailed functional description of the CDHS, a presentation of the packaging design, and a brief description of the engineering model constructed. Several pictures of the engineering model are included to aid in the description of the packaging.