An advanced spacecraft avionics architecture

The critical importance of affordability in both military and commercial space systems places renewed emphasis on the use of standardization, open systems design, and dual use technologies and products. In particular, the cost of satellite integration and test, historically a major driver of total system cost, can be significantly reduced through standardization of key interfaces. For such strategies to be effective, an overall architectural framework which ensures consistency and completeness in the implementing standards is essential. This paper presents an approach to defining an Advanced Spacecraft Avionics Architecture (ASAA) which embodies to the maximum feasible extent commercial standards and modern system design principles. We discuss the payoffs which can be achieved in a wide variety of systems and missions and the challenges which must be overcome to achieve widespread application of the ASAA.