Spitzer observatory operations: increasing efficiency in mission operations

Charles P. Scott; Bolinda E. Kahr; Marc A. Sarrel

doi:10.1117/12.672228

30 June 2006 Spitzer observatory operations: increasing efficiency in mission operations

Charles P. Scott, Bolinda E. Kahr, Marc A. Sarrel

Proceedings Volume 6270, Observatory Operations: Strategies, Processes, and Systems; 62701B (2006) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.672228
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2006, Orlando, Florida , United States

Abstract

This paper explores the how's and why's of the Spitzer Mission Operations System's (MOS) success, efficiency, and affordability in comparison to other observatory-class missions. MOS exploits today's flight, ground, and operations capabilities, embraces automation, and balances both risk and cost. With operational efficiency as the primary goal, MOS maintains a strong control process by translating lessons learned into efficiency improvements, thereby enabling the MOS processes, teams, and procedures to rapidly evolve from concept (through thorough validation) into in-flight implementation. Operational teaming, planning, and execution are designed to enable re-use. Mission changes, unforeseen events, and continuous improvement have often times forced us to learn to fly anew. Collaborative spacecraft operations and remote science and instrument teams have become well integrated, and worked together to improve and optimize each human, machine, and software-system element. Adaptation to tighter spacecraft margins has facilitated continuous operational improvements via automated and autonomous software coupled with improved human analysis. Based upon what we now know and what we need to improve, adapt, or fix, the projected mission lifetime continues to grow - as does the opportunity for numerous scientific discoveries.

Citation Download Citation

Charles P. Scott, Bolinda E. Kahr, and Marc A. Sarrel "Spitzer observatory operations: increasing efficiency in mission operations", Proc. SPIE 6270, Observatory Operations: Strategies, Processes, and Systems, 62701B (30 June 2006); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.672228

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