[SatNews] Orbit Logic has signed a Phase II SBIR contract sponsored by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) for the development of a flexible and scalable architecture for mission planning in onboard flight software. The modular design conceived by Orbit Logic during its Phase I work is flexible to support limited or extensive onboard automation for planning decisions. As part of the new Phase II contract, Orbit Logic will develop a fully functional flight software prototype of the system. While the Phase II prototype will implement specific sample modules, the architecture supports the implementation of autonomous onboard agents for any type of planning function.

Mission planning, scheduling, collection planning and tasking have traditionally been performed on the ground, with the resulting plans transmitted to the satellite for execution. Moving the decision-making to the satellite enables more agile response to changing events and environments. “We are not just creating a mission-specific flight software planner.” said Alex Herz, president of Orbit Logic. “We are developing a scalable and flexible flight software architecture that will support the implementation of onboard planning for any mission.”

Orbit Logic will be working with Emergent Space Technologies and PnP Innovations (PnPI) on this effort. Emergent and PnPI will leverage experience with onboard flight software and real-time ground command & control software to support a quick start to the project and help ensure successful prototype development.