Abstract
This chapter provides an overview of systems, processes and techniques used within the mission ground segment. The ground segment comprises those elements of the mission system that are used to control the spacecraft and its payload, and to process the data returned from it. Note that launch infrastructure is not normally considered to be part of the ground segment.
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Notes
- 1.
Many MCS implementations are now based upon the internationally recognized standards of the Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems (CCSDS). Adherence to these standards allows interoperability and sharing of infrastructure between operators around the world.
- 2.
A range of other simulators will also be used in the mission development as a whole, focusing on other aspects. For example, the spacecraft manufacturer will employ simulation for structural engineering and dedicated dynamic simulations may be used to validate the on-board software’s attitude control algorithms.
- 3.
It is common practice to generate ‘dummy’ data for insertion in encrypted data flows, in order to conceal the presence (or absence) of true data.
- 4.
For further reading, the reader is recommended to study European Cooperation for Space Standardisation (ECSS) paper ECSS-E-ST-70C, describing ground systems and operations for space systems.
- 5.
At the time of writing, most LEO missions continue to use direct space-to-ground communications links, rather than relay links via other communications satellites.
- 6.
A motor-driven, spinning mass. Rotational acceleration and deceleration of the mass produces a torque that can be used to steer the spacecraft body or to resist an external torque. Wheels can also provide gyroscopic stability.
- 7.
Devices for generating a controlled magnetic field, with a known orientation. Magnetorquers can be used to apply a control torque on the spacecraft, when a significant external field is present.
- 8.
Following a serious failure, the spacecraft may reorient itself towards the Sun for maximum power generation. An LGA link may be required, if the spacecraft has lost tracking of the Earth.
- 9.
In the case of maneuvers, externally observed flight dynamics data (e.g. observed acceleration) may also provide an important route to monitor progress.
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© 2014 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg
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Lowe, R., Kent, D., Coutinho, P., Halsall, K. (2014). Ground Segment. In: Macdonald, M., Badescu, V. (eds) The International Handbook of Space Technology. Springer Praxis Books(). Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-41101-4_20
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-41101-4_20
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