NOS3 for DSM

The goal of this project is to maximize reuse across Distributed Systems Missions (DSMs) by expanding upon the existing NASA Operational Simulator for Small Satellites (NOS3). New developments include provided recommended best practices, procedures, development flow, unit tests, an example mission, and template tools to get started for users. Having these will reduce the cost of access to space for future missions by enabling reuse of heritage applications and providing a baseline from which to build.

As DSMs are becoming a primary focus for the space industry, the desire to have tools to support them is growing. NOS3 has been leveraged to reduce overhead incurrent with the current generation of Small Satellites when developing a new mission. The NOS3 architecture allows for verification, validation, and heritage utilization which results in a reduction in the cost and schedule as well as a lower risk system by providing a baseline example and necessary tools for development. This architecture has never spanned multiple spacecraft in a single environment, though it was originally designed with that in mind. This effort has the goal of working with NASA GSFC experts to enable the support of DSMs in the NOS3 environment and enabling the development of new technologies using these tools.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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