Data System Overview

Abstract

The design of the SFOC data system is based on a "design for change" philosophy. It emphasizes standards throughout the implementation, allowing for reuse of software, for periodic changeout of hardware, and for an evolving network configuration. Commercial off-the-shelf hardware and software components are incorporated in a way that avoids dependencies on any single vendor. Multiple flight projects are supported by building upon the baseline system with a minimum of special purpose adaptations. In addition to the multi-mission aspect of SFOC, it must also satisfy multiple users representing multiple disciplines. Data system operators monitor and control SFOC itself. Spacecraft team members keep a vigil to protect the health of the spacecraft. Mission planners and sequence designers control the spacecraft. Science investigators remotely calibrate and control their onboard instruments. SFOC provides near-realtime and nonrealtime support to end-users for downlink (telemetry) and uplink (command) functions. This paper provides an overview to the design of the overall SFOC system and describes the implementation of the current baseline SFOC. It summarizes the important design decisions that have been made, and explains the approach taken to meeting these challenging requirements.