Lifetime Autonomy Software for Spacecraft Operations (LASSO)

As described in Topic SF241-0020, some Space Force satellites ōģ are currently almost completely operated from the ground.ö While manual control has worked to date, it will not be viable in the future as space becomes ever more contested, congested, and the number of satellites increases dramatically. One solution is to follow current commercial practices and automate nominal operations. While automation is needed, it first and foremost must be something Guardians can trustŚone of the most significant barriers to transitioning automation into operational use. Operators need to understand the decisions being made and the limits of the autonomy architecture to calibrate their trust appropriately. In response to this need, Stottler Henke proposesĀLifetime Autonomy Software for Spacecraft Operations (LASSO), an autonomy architecture designed for the Space ForceÆs increasing number of critical, high-value assets, supporting satellite operations over long durations without operator intervention. Planned Phase I research includes performing a literature review, defining requirements, and identifying stakeholder needs. Based on the results of this work, our uniquely qualified team, which includes PatchPlus Consulting, and CU BoulderÆs Autonomous Vehicle Systems (AVS) Laboratory, will create a detailed system design, develop a limited proof-of-concept prototype, and demonstrate its capabilities usingĀastrodynamicsĀsimulation software.