Realistic Autonomous Mission Manager Modeler (RAMMM)

ABSTRACT: The Air Force is seeking methods to enhance satellite responsiveness by developing autonomous flight software that supports on-board event detection, planning, and task execution. Key to autonomous flight software is a realistic simulation environment with realistic satellite models. ATA proposes a systems-driven methodology for producing high fidelity, realistic satellite models, a Realistic Autonomous Mission Manager Modeler (RAMMM). Currently, the Autonomous Mission Manager (AMM) satellite models are being developed using the Satellite Design Tool (SDT), which allows virtual satellites to be modeled without any real world constraints. ATA proposes to develop a satellite bus model using RAMMM to ensure mapping between payload and bus requirements and mapping of bus interdependencies and interactions. The results are significant because: They form a foundation upon which to develop and incorporate higher fidelity components at all levels of the virtual spacecraft design and implementation. They create a foundation upon which new advance control systems for both satellite bus and payload components can be implemented. The combination of high fidelity components and advance control systems will enable more realistic scenarios and operating constraints to be incorporated into AMM research and demonstrations. Similar processes could be applied to satellite payload autonomy requirements. BENEFIT: ATA has been developing technology for the U.S. Government and Aerospace contractors since 1975. During this time, we have developed outstanding relationships that we will leverage to bring the RAMMM technology to market. ATA"s success in generating additional revenue tied to our Phase I and Phase II SBIR projects has allowed ATA to grow and expand its business through Phase III commercialization and other spin-off contracts. As reported in the ATA Company Commercialization Report, we have received 43 Phase I SBIR awards and 21 Phase II awards. ATA"s track record for commercialization of SBIR sponsored technology development is excellent, resulting in a Commercialization Achievement Index of 90 and related cumulative revenues from sales and additional investments of over $42 million. ATA"s preliminary assessment of the market space for our RAMMM technology has produced some interesting initial targeted customers. For example, the European Space Agency (ESA) has a lot of focus on autonomous satellite operations. Other potential customers within the market include but are not limited to the Operational Responsive Space (ORS) Office, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, the Army"s Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC), NASA, Other Government Agencies who desire clandestine on-board space operations, and MDA as a possible future capability for their PTSS constellation under development.