Human dependability requirements, scope and implementation at the European Space Agency

Abstract

The results of preliminary investigations into the human-dependability needs of the European Space Agency are outlined. From these investigations a comprehensive human dependability program has been recommended to assist in the design of operationally safe space systems. Because the Agency is aware of the controversy surrounding this, a very careful review of the proposals is being undertaken. The proposed specification requires the implementation of programs for human-dependability testing and simulation, data collection and the maintenance of detailed data files on analysis results, incidents and incident investigations, and reports on lessons learned.<>