Standardized Interface for Satellite Ground System Integration Technologies

In order to reduce the costs and schedule required for ground system deployments, a Common Simulation Environment (CSE) can be used that allows both the factory bus/payload integration and operational TT&C systems to integrate quickly and effectively. With the advent of Enterprise Ground Services (EGS) and the Goddard Mission Services Evolution Center (GMSEC) Bus there is the opportunity to provide a CSE by adding plug-in code to existing frameworks to mimic all the scarce and difficult-to-integrate components within EGS. The functionality provided by Ground Resource Manager (GRM) through the Service Interface Specification Document for the MMSOC would enable encapsulation of all the EGS functionality into a simple and easy to use/deploy Software Simulation. With CSE in place, it could then be supplied for use to both the factory and TT&C developers, allowing a common test framework that significantly reduces risk on the path to operations. A common command and telemetry definition can also be developed that allows the CSE capability to be used with different vehicles and programs. Finally, with a common ground interface and command and telemetry definitions in place, the amount of reuse that can be expected for a given TT&C system is greatly enhanced.