Session

Technical Session IV: Future Missions 2

Abstract

The In-Situ Technology Test Bed (ISTTB) is a new, technology demonstration platform for electronics, software and hardware. The ISTTB contains several standard interface slots that carry the Devices-Under-Test (DUTs) and an all-purpose flight computer to test software. The ISTTB platform will: measure the radiation experienced by the payloads; read the spacecraft sensors; capture payload data; and send the telemetry to a ground station. The ISTTB fulfills all the definitions of a small satellite: orbiting spacecraft with low power and low mass, however, the ISTTB will be permanently attached to a Rideshare adapter. The ISTTB is a reusable 'spacecraft bus' design that demonstrates new technology in a real-world radiation environment, integrates with real-world hardware for ‘in-thefield’ experimentation and system performance characterization, and yields a competitive-edge for all its payloads by increasing Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) at an inexpensive 'firm-fixed’ price. The ISTTB solution offers several advantages over other technology demonstration programs such as the New Millennium Program and TacSat such as: offers 100% dedicated on-orbit testing time; multiple launch opportunities; and ‘primary payload’ designation. The ISTTB is a new, highly useful 'market' for the small satellite community. First deployment of an ISTTB platform is scheduled for the 2008-2009 timeframe.

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Aug 14th, 11:00 AM

In-Situ Technology Test Bed (ISTTB)

The In-Situ Technology Test Bed (ISTTB) is a new, technology demonstration platform for electronics, software and hardware. The ISTTB contains several standard interface slots that carry the Devices-Under-Test (DUTs) and an all-purpose flight computer to test software. The ISTTB platform will: measure the radiation experienced by the payloads; read the spacecraft sensors; capture payload data; and send the telemetry to a ground station. The ISTTB fulfills all the definitions of a small satellite: orbiting spacecraft with low power and low mass, however, the ISTTB will be permanently attached to a Rideshare adapter. The ISTTB is a reusable 'spacecraft bus' design that demonstrates new technology in a real-world radiation environment, integrates with real-world hardware for ‘in-thefield’ experimentation and system performance characterization, and yields a competitive-edge for all its payloads by increasing Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) at an inexpensive 'firm-fixed’ price. The ISTTB solution offers several advantages over other technology demonstration programs such as the New Millennium Program and TacSat such as: offers 100% dedicated on-orbit testing time; multiple launch opportunities; and ‘primary payload’ designation. The ISTTB is a new, highly useful 'market' for the small satellite community. First deployment of an ISTTB platform is scheduled for the 2008-2009 timeframe.