SS3861 Spacecraft Payload Design I

This course focuses on the software and hardware associated with payload design with an emphasis on hands-on lab experience. Students will learn basic payload computing (software and electrical) concepts through lecture and by designing and building a spacecraft payload. Systems engineering principles will be introduced and applied to the payload design. Principles of payload requirements, including design and bus interface requirements, as well as payload integration and testing will be introduced. This course culminates in a preliminary design review and functional prototype of the payload.

Prerequisite

SS1100, EO3525 (or equivalent), EC3230, PH2514, and PH3052; or Consent of Instructor.

Lecture Hours

2

Lab Hours

4

Course Learning Outcomes

To achieve the first objective of examining the fundamental principles behind payload design, you will successfully complete the following tasks:

• Generate or modify code that follows standard communications protocol to control electronic hardware.
• Demonstrate the ability to use standard bench equipment to evaluate a complex system.
• Operate basic lab equipment, tools, and software to facilitate payload design and system-level integration.
• Perform environmental testing.

To achieve the second objective, you will demonstrate your ability to formulate requirements that meets mission objectives by successfully completing the following tasks:

• Establish a mission statement and mission objectives for an operationally-relevant payload design.
• Derive mission and system requirements.
• Articulate system specifications from an interface control document (ICD) and implement them to design a compatible payload.