THE MIDCOURSE SPACE EXPERIMENT - AN ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY DATA SYSTEM FOR AN ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM

Abstract

The Midcourse Space Experiment (MSX) program is the premier space technology experiment of the Ballistic Missile Defense Organization (BMDO) that addresses BMDO system development requirements. The primary objective of the experiment is to collect and analyze data on target and backgrounds phenomenology using three multi-spectral (ultraviolet through infrared) imaging sensors. The program also has objectives for space-based space-object surveillance, assessing space contamination effects, and investigating atmospheric and space phenomenology. Effective scientific Data Management is one of the critical functions within the MSX program organization and is key to meeting the program objectives. The wide spectrum of objectives and requirements of the MSX program were major drivers in the design of a Data System with a heterogeneous, distributed processing center concept and a dual data flow path to meet sensor assessment and experiment analysis requirements. An important technology decision that evolved from this design was the exclusive use of workstation class computers for data processing. A flexible, highly robust development and testing methodology was created to implement this unique system. Companion papers in this session provide detailed descriptions of functions of key elements in the Data System operations.