Micro Mass-Memory Storage Module (MMSM) for Space-Based Missile Defense Platforms

MSI is proposing to design and build a Micro Mass Storage Module (MMSM) that demonstrates the feasibility of using hard disk drives in space. The increasing fidelity of satellite imagery along with the increased capability for on-board data processing isdriving an increased need for on-board data storage. The development of a low cost, lightweight, modular on-board data storage system using commercial hard drives will meet the future storage needs of all government and commercial satellites. The use ofhard disk drives in space holds great promise as it eliminates the need for continuous power, data densities are huge, and magnetic media are relatively immune to space radiation. In the past, mass and power requirements during operation have made thisoption undesirable. In recent years however, hard drives have become smaller, more rugged, and power consumption has been drastically reduced (all results of the commercial drive to smaller, laptop and handheld computing devices). The MMSM provides amodular system incorporating hermetically sealed, vibration isolated Drive Modules along with an Electronics Control Module offering up to 800 megabits/second data rate through parallel hard disk drive control. These modular components interface to alight weight system harness.