A Cloud-based, Open-Source, Command-and-Control Software Paradigm for Space Situational Awareness (SSA)

Ryan Melton, Ball Aerospace, Jason Thomas, Ball Aerospace

Keywords: COSMOS, Open Source, C2, Command, Control

Abstract:

With the rapid growth in the number of space actors, there has been a marked increase in the complexity and diversity of software systems utilized to support SSA target tracking, indication, warning, and collision avoidance. Historically, most SSA software has been constructed with “closed” proprietary code, which limits interoperability, inhibits the code transparency that some SSA customers need to develop domain expertise, and prevents the rapid injection of innovative concepts into these systems. Open-source aerospace software, a rapidly emerging, alternative trend in code development, is based on open collaboration, which has the potential to bring greater transparency, interoperability, flexibility, and reduced development costs. Open-source software is easily adaptable, geared to rapidly changing mission needs, and can generally be delivered at lower costs to meet mission requirements.

Date of Conference: September 19-22, 2017

Track: Space Situational Awareness

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