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The Mission Simulation Support Software (MS3) package is an integrated set of networked applications that provide the functionality to conduct real time end-to-end space mission simulations. In its current form, MS3 is targeted towards simulations of Space Shuttle missions (MS3-Shuttle), but the MS3 architecture can readily support other concepts such as Lunar or Mars missions. MS3 offers both a Basic configuration as well as a set of optional mission and/or architectural extensions.
In the MS3-Shuttle basic architecture, independent MS3 applications are assigned to three infrastructure elements named Simulation Monitoring and Control (SM&C), Shuttle Flight Deck (SFD), and Mission Control (MC). These elements provide all the functionality required to start and sequence the simulation; allow the "flight crew" to perform mission tasks in the Shuttle cockpit; and support mission planning and monitoring by the "ground controllers".
Physically, these three elements consist of multiple PC-class computers, each hosting a specific MS3 application and networked together to exchange commands and data between all the participants. In general, the number of workstations in the SFD and MC are dependent upon customer-unique requirements for number of support positions in mission control; and complexity of the crew interface and visual presentation on the flight deck. While, as a minimum, MS3 requires the SM&C and an MC or SFD workstation, the maximum configuration can be fairly extensive. It is not unprecedented to have a network of more than 15 MS3 computers conducting an elaborate Shuttle mission.
Simulation Monitoring and Control (SM&C)
Simulation Monitoring and Control consists of one workstation providing the user interface that allows the instructor or mission director to control and monitor the integrated simulation. The SM&C user interface offers:
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Controls for starting and stopping simulation; and selection of mission type, phase, and times.
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Status lights to provide real time insight into network configuration.
Also, SM&C provides the platform for the Shuttle/payload trajectory and systems models. SM&C models react to input made by the flight crew on the SFD and distribute data to the MC and SFD for display.
Mission Control (MC)
Mission Control is comprised of one or more workstations where Mission Controllers can monitor the real time status of the Shuttle and payload trajectory and systems. MC presents, in real time, data generated by the SM&C models to the Mission Control Team.
Shuttle Flight Deck (SFD)
The Shuttle Flight Deck includes one or more workstations that provide the Shuttle "crew" interface for making control inputs to the SM&C models as well as viewing Shuttle and payload systems and trajectory data. This interface is in the form of "green screen" displays and computer emulation of Shuttle glass cockpit instrumentation. The SFD also provides the physical interface for sound effect generation, crew keyboard entries, joystick control, toggle switches, and output digital and analog devices.
The SFD also presents the mission visuals, or "out-the-window" views. The number of visuals is essentially unlimited; the complete Shuttle forward window complement can be provided, as well as overhead, payload bay and camera views. During landing, the SFD can also present the Head's Up Display (HUD).
While the three infrastructure elements (SM&C, SFD and MC) provide the application environment for conducting Shuttle simulations, the Mission defines the scope and content of the simulation. MS3 Mission configuration data provide detailed information such as mission duration, event times, Shuttle system data, display definitions, trajectories, payload content, etc. As a minimum, MS3 is delivered with one launch to landing Shuttle Mission.
The Basic Mission begins at launch -9 minutes; continues through powered flight ascent, on-orbit operations, entry, and ends with a landing at the Kennedy Space Center. The primary purpose of this mission is to deploy a Payload Assist Module (PAM) in a high inclination orbit (51 degrees). Examples of the interactive capabilities in the Basic Mission include:
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Prelaunch Power up of Shuttle Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) and other systems.
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Monitoring of the trajectory and systems during Shuttle launch from liftoff through main engine cutoff.
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Targeting and execution of post main engine cutoff (MECO) orbit adjust maneuvers.
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APU shutdown and opening of the payload bay doors.
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Satellite "spinup" and deployment from the payload bay.
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Earth observation via shuttle attitude control using the joystick.
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Preparation for deorbit and landing.
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Monitoring of the trajectory and systems during Shuttle entry and landing.
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Manual control of the Shuttle from about 50000 feet to the ground.
In addition to the Basic configuration, MS3 offers a set of optional extensions, which provide additional infrastructure functionality as well as new Mission content. Where applicable, additional hardware may be required to support the options.
Option 1: External Camera Views
SM&C element extension to support Mission Control views of MS3 operations from various instructor-selectable camera locations, including the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB), runway threshold, east and south of launch pad, cargo bay cameras, and a "chase plane." Requires an additional workstation.
Option 2: Orbiter Malfunctions
SM&C element extension to support control and monitoring of instructor-selectable malfunctions. Inserted anomalies may cause alarms, system display parameter changes, and caution and warning panel illumination to cue the "crew" and "flight controllers" to failures that need to be isolated or solved.
Option 3: Station to Station E-Mail
SM&C and MC element extensions to support composition and transmission of simple, text-based messages among Mission Control positions and the instructor.
Option 4: International Space Station (ISS) Rendezvous Mission
A new mission focusing on Shuttle rendezvous with the ISS. ISS imagery is included as well as display extensions for rendezvous monitoring and maneuver execution. Requires additional workstations to support customer-required camera views (aft crew station, payload bay docking collar, etc).
Option 5: ISS Malfunctions
SM&C element extension to support control and monitoring of instructor-selectable malfunctions for ISS systems. Inserted anomalies may cause alarms, system display parameter changes, and caution and warning panel illumination to cue the "crew" and "flight controllers" to failures that need to be isolated or solved. Requires an additional workstation, although it can be combined with Option 2.
Option 6: Transatlantic Abort and Landing (TAL) Mission
A new mission focusing on a Shuttle launch abort resulting in a Transatlantic landing at Ben Guerir, Morocco (NASA TAL landing site). Ben Guerir night landing imagery is included as well as display extensions for abort selection and monitoring.
Option 7: Abort Once Around (AOA) Mission
A new mission focusing on a Shuttle launch abort resulting in a first orbit landing at Edwards Air Force Base (EAFB), California (NASA AOA landing site). EAFB landing imagery is included as well as display extensions for abort selection and monitoring.
Option 8: Virtual Switch Emulator (VSE)
SFD element extension to support software emulation of Shuttle cockpit switches. VSE presents graphical representations of selected Shuttle switch panels, allowing "crew members" to make inputs via either a mouse or touch screen. This option is most useful for locations that cannot support physical toggle switches. Requires an additional workstation.
Option 9: Hubble Rendezvous Using the Remote Manipulator System (RMS) Mission
A new mission focusing on Shuttle rendezvous and grapple of the Hubble Space Telescope using the Orbiter RMS. Hubble and RMS imagery are included as well as display and joystick extensions for controlling the RMS. Display extensions are also provided for HST rendezvous monitoring and maneuver execution.
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