Generic COTS Attitude Determination and Control Software

Microcosm proposes to develop the first fully commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software system for spacecraft attitude determination and control and mission attitude analysis applicable to a wide variety of attitude modes, configuration, sensors, actuators, and environments. Although multi-mission orbit software has existed for many years, attitude software has not been generalized because of the wide variety of mission types, modes, hardware, and environments. We propose to overcome this by creating a series of standardized, tested routines based on a knowledge base currently under development by Microcosm for NRL to characterize fundamental attitude algorithms and systems. We will ten create a framework in which these routines can be rapidly assembled to meet diverse mission needs. Phase I will result in a definition of the system architecture, definition of appropriate low level routines (including ancillary routines for orbits, environments, and sensors), identification of sources of existing routines or ones that can be modified, and a commercialization plan for a long-term, self-sustaining set of products. Phase I will clearly establish the feasibility and range of applicability for the first fully COTS attitude determination and control software system. Benefits: The proposed software will be applicable to commercial, military, and scientific space mission and reduce the cost, and risk of attitude determination and control systems.|