Techniques for Safety Updating Firmware On-Orbit
Abstract
In any development cycle the push to get hardware available for the software is of high priority. Due to the complexity and time consuming nature of software development, it isn’t unusual to have a small satellite ready for launch with software features lagging behind. Continuing the software development while the satellite is integrated and waits on the launch pad is desired but the risk of attempting a software update in-orbit can be a high risk and daunting task. Including a simple firmware boot-loader can provide the satellite with a method for updating firmware through-out the small satellites life. Adopting simple but robust design strategies can be the difference between upgrading existing firmware and turning the small satellite into an expensive piece of orbital debris. This poster provides a high-level overview of the Beningo Engineering Small Satellite Boot-loader Framework integrated into the Canopus Smart Solar Panel and the embedded software techniques used to ensure that firmware could be updated safely in-flight.
Poster
Techniques for Safety Updating Firmware On-Orbit
In any development cycle the push to get hardware available for the software is of high priority. Due to the complexity and time consuming nature of software development, it isn’t unusual to have a small satellite ready for launch with software features lagging behind. Continuing the software development while the satellite is integrated and waits on the launch pad is desired but the risk of attempting a software update in-orbit can be a high risk and daunting task. Including a simple firmware boot-loader can provide the satellite with a method for updating firmware through-out the small satellites life. Adopting simple but robust design strategies can be the difference between upgrading existing firmware and turning the small satellite into an expensive piece of orbital debris. This poster provides a high-level overview of the Beningo Engineering Small Satellite Boot-loader Framework integrated into the Canopus Smart Solar Panel and the embedded software techniques used to ensure that firmware could be updated safely in-flight.
