Session
Session X: Lessons Learned
Abstract
The current trend in space science is for payload developers to minimize program cost and schedule while conducting useful science. One problem with the design, integration, and testing of lowcost missions is that much of the savings results from the assumption of risk. Analyzing lessons learned from high-risk programs is an effective means for increasing success while meeting budget and schedule constraints. University efforts, such as the University Nanosat Program (UNP), are faced with the seemingly contradictory goals of mission success and low cost while designing revolutionary experiments. Currently planned for a shuttle launch, UNP is subject to rigorous qualification requirements resulting from NASA’s manned spaceflight safety program. Universities have limited experience with the design, integration, and test of flight hardware for manned spaceflight. The program has identified many areas for improvement. This paper explores the effects of various program and technical approaches--those that worked, and those that didn’t. Design, integration and test, configuration management, quality assurance, and safety are considered. Lessons learned from the University Nanosat Program are expected to be the basis for success in launching future university-built technology.
University Developed Hardware for the Space Shuttle: Strategies for Success
The current trend in space science is for payload developers to minimize program cost and schedule while conducting useful science. One problem with the design, integration, and testing of lowcost missions is that much of the savings results from the assumption of risk. Analyzing lessons learned from high-risk programs is an effective means for increasing success while meeting budget and schedule constraints. University efforts, such as the University Nanosat Program (UNP), are faced with the seemingly contradictory goals of mission success and low cost while designing revolutionary experiments. Currently planned for a shuttle launch, UNP is subject to rigorous qualification requirements resulting from NASA’s manned spaceflight safety program. Universities have limited experience with the design, integration, and test of flight hardware for manned spaceflight. The program has identified many areas for improvement. This paper explores the effects of various program and technical approaches--those that worked, and those that didn’t. Design, integration and test, configuration management, quality assurance, and safety are considered. Lessons learned from the University Nanosat Program are expected to be the basis for success in launching future university-built technology.
