Introduction to the Design Domains

Abstract

This is the first chapter of the second part of the book. It examines the interrelations between the components and elements of a space system and how they interact together during the design process. To study these interactions, the overall design space will be divided into domains. Each design domain is defined as a specific area where multiple design decisions interact strongly with one another, while they interact only weakly with design decisions external to the domain. The main tool for the study of these interactions is the comparison and analysis of past design examples. To provide an introductory perspective on the highest-level design decisions, the chapter analyzes the evolution over time of a very specific type of mission: the “Astronomical Observatory” mission. A number of past astronomical observatory missions will be presented and their highest-level design decisions – orbit, overall data flow, attitude, overall satellite configuration, operations – will be analyzed and compared.