Onboard Software Static Architecture

Onboard Software Functions

Already in the introduction to chapter 7 it was explained that more S/C onboard units than just the central OBC are in fact computers. And obviously they contain and need onboard software for operation. Besides the computers cited in chapter 7 quite a significant number of microcontrollers are hidden in intelligent sensor and actuator units which including their own embedded software. Typical components providing functions achieved in software are

• obviously the S/C platform central OBCs,

• instrument / payload control computers and payload data processors (image compression units etc.),

• the aforementioned Memory Management and Formatting Units,

• Power Control and Distribution Units,

• and complex AOCS sensors and actuators such as

  • the previously mentioned star trackers,

  • GPS / Galileo / GLONASS receivers,

  • other position sensors such as DORIS receivers,

  • as well as fiber-optic gyros and

  • as well as fiber-optic gyros and

  • intelligently controlled reaction wheels.