Spacecraft Maneuver Simulation Interface for On-Orbit Decision Making
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spacecraft mission technologies lack a unified platform for effective space object control and simulation, which hinders efficient monitoring and control of space objects.
Innovation Solution
The development of a mission control center system that provides a common platform and interface for space mission operations, training, and simulation, featuring high-fidelity modeling and simulation for Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) and a graphical front-end for input and visualization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a unified platform for space object control and simulation is implemented, then decision-making capabilities and training effectiveness are improved, but system complexity and development costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into distinct functional modules including a simulation engine for high-fidelity modeling, a mission planning module for trajectory optimization, a visualization module for graphical display, and a data management module for scenario storage. Each module operates independently but integrates through standardized interfaces, allowing the complex unified platform to be developed, tested, and maintained in manageable segments while achieving improved decision-making capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If high-fidelity modeling and simulation capabilities are added for RPO operations, then mission planning and analysis accuracy are improved, but computational requirements and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation engine implements adaptive fidelity modeling that adjusts computational detail based on mission phase and requirements. For critical RPO maneuver planning, high-fidelity physics models are activated with full computational detail. For less critical phases such as initial orbit insertion or routine operations, reduced-fidelity models are used that maintain essential accuracy while consuming significantly less computational power. This partial application of high-fidelity modeling optimizes the balance between planning accuracy and computational resource usage.
3Ease of operation
If a graphical front-end with multiple visualization options is provided, then user interface functionality and operator situational awareness are improved, but system complexity and development time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The graphical front-end implements a unified visualization framework that provides multiple display modes (2D orbital plots, 3D spatial representations, trajectory animations, and parameter dashboards) through a single integrated interface architecture. The same core rendering engine and data binding system support all visualization types, allowing operators to switch between different display perspectives and detail levels without requiring separate interface systems. This multi-functional approach enhances situational awareness while controlling development complexity through code reuse and standardized interface patterns.
4Adaptability or versatility
If cloud-based simulation services are implemented for accessibility, then remote access and collaboration capabilities are improved, but network dependency and security risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a secure cloud-based architecture where the simulation engine and core processing run on remote servers, while a lightweight client application provides the user interface. This intermediary cloud infrastructure enables remote access and collaboration across different locations and devices without requiring users to host complex simulation software locally. Security is enhanced through encrypted data transmission, authenticated access controls, and isolated execution environments that protect sensitive mission data while providing versatile remote access capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to systems, methods, and storage media for controlling and simulating spacecraft maneuvers, where the method comprises requesting, using a pilot vehicle interface, a view of the on-orbit operations, wherein the view comprises at least one object; receiving, from a simulation engine executing on a virtual machine, scenario data describing a status of the on-orbit operations; receiving object information about how the at least one object interacts with the on-orbit operations; integrating the scenario data with the object information to obtain the on-orbit operations; and providing, via the pilot vehicle interface, the view of the on-orbit operations.