Using XML for Interprocess Communications in a Space Situational Awareness and Control Application

Abstract

As various militaries progress toward a network-centric environment, their dependency upon space assets is expected to grow exponentially. It is important for the commander to be aware of the dispositions and movements in this fourth medium. The success of terrestrial forces requires comprehensive space situational awareness (SSA). 21st Century Systems, Inc. is essentially developing a SSA and decision support application that, with proper inputs, will provide an integrated space picture. We call this concept, SituSpace. The visualization uses two and three dimensional depictions to provide the watchstander with rapid situational awareness. SituSpace employs intelligent software agents to provide timely alerts and cogent recommendations. The intelligent agents apply the user’s ROE, situation, resources, etc. to rapidly derive actionable recommendations to accelerate the decision loop. The SituSpace concept gains synergy from combining two complementary ideas: using a metalanguage as the medium of storage and interprocess communication and a modular publish-subscribe software architecture.