SCIENCE AND APPLICATIONS SPACE PLATFORM COMMUNICATIONS AND DATA MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Abstract

The development of space platforms represents the next logical step in the exploration and utilization of space. Such platforms promise cost-effective means for performing both scientific and applications missions, such as surveys of Earth resources, for example, in low Earth orbit. Payloads mounted on these platforms can perform missions for longer periods of time than are currently available to payloads mounted in the Shuttle’s payload bay. In addition, these platforms can provide a variety of services, including a centralized power source, command and data acquisition, communications, pointing and environmental control, as well as periodic Shuttle visits for performing maintenance tasks, replenishing consumables, and replacing payloads. These platforms must be able to provide data and communications services to groups of payloads consisting of individual payloads that may or may not have common objectives and operating characteristics, and where the payload mix on a platform changes periodically during the orbital life of the platform. Appropriate data systems can be provided to support a platform development program and modest extensions of existing technology will allow these platforms to accommodate the evolution of payloads foreseen through the 1980’s.