What are the best practices for space mission scheduling?

1 Define the mission objectives and requirements

The first step in space mission scheduling is to define the mission objectives and requirements, such as the scientific goals, the payload, the orbit, the launch window, the budget, and the performance metrics. These will guide the design and analysis of the mission architecture, the selection of the launch vehicle and the spacecraft, and the allocation of resources and time. The mission objectives and requirements should be clear, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound.

3 Apply optimization and simulation techniques

The third step in space mission scheduling is to apply optimization and simulation techniques, which are powerful tools for finding the best solutions and analyzing the system behavior. Optimization techniques help to minimize or maximize a certain objective function, such as cost, time, or fuel, subject to certain constraints, such as launch availability, orbit dynamics, or communication coverage. Simulation techniques help to model and test the system in a virtual environment, taking into account the uncertainties and risks, such as weather, failures, or delays. Optimization and simulation techniques can be used separately or together, depending on the complexity and uncertainty of the problem.

4 Implement a project management framework

The fourth step in space mission scheduling is to implement a project management framework, which is a structured and standardized way of managing the project activities, resources, and stakeholders. A project management framework consists of five phases: initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and control, and closure. Each phase has specific tasks, deliverables, and milestones that need to be completed and tracked. A project management framework helps to ensure that the space mission is delivered on time, on budget, and on scope, and that the quality and risk are managed effectively.

5 Use a collaborative and agile approach

The fifth step in space mission scheduling is to use a collaborative and agile approach, which is a flexible and adaptive way of working with the team and the stakeholders. A collaborative and agile approach involves frequent communication, feedback, and iteration, as well as the use of tools and platforms that facilitate information sharing, coordination, and integration. A collaborative and agile approach helps to cope with the changes and challenges that may arise during the space mission, and to leverage the collective knowledge and creativity of the team and the stakeholders.

6 Learn from the lessons learned

The sixth and final step in space mission scheduling is to learn from the lessons learned, which are the insights and recommendations that are derived from the experience and evaluation of the space mission. The lessons learned should be documented, shared, and applied to improve the future space missions, as well as to contribute to the knowledge and best practices of the aerospace engineering community. The lessons learned should cover both the technical and the managerial aspects of the space mission, and should highlight the successes and the failures, as well as the reasons and the solutions.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?