Micromission spacecraft: a low-cost, high-capability platform for space science missions

The Ball Micromission Spacecraft (MSC) is a multi-purpose platform capable of supporting science missions at distances from the Sun ranging from 0.7 to 1.7 AU. In the baseline scenario, MSC is launched as a secondary payload on an Ariane 5 rocket from Kourou, French Guiana, to GTO using the Ariane 5 structure for auxiliary payloads (ASAP5). The maximum launch wet mass is 242 Kg and can include up to 45 Kg of payload depending on AV needs. The on-board propulsion system is used for maneuvering in the Earth-Moon system and injecting the spacecraft into its final orbit or trajectory. For Mars missions, MSC enables orbiting Mars for science payloads and/or communications and navigation assets, or for precision Mars fly-bys to drop up to six probes. The micromissions spacecraft bus can be used for science targets other than Mars, including the Moon, Earth, Venus, Earth-Sun Lagrange points, or other small bodies. This paper summarizes the current spacecraft concept and describes the multimission spacecraft bus implementation in more detail.     

IEEE 1394: a growing computer connectivity standard for automatedtest

This paper describes the latest trends in the IEEE 1394 (“firewire^TM” or “iLink^TM”) standards and why it is becoming the connectivity standard of choice for automatic test applications. Why move to IEEE 1394, what are the possible risks with doing so, what are some of the myths associated with IEEE 1394 and a practical example of an automatic test application will all be presented with the prime emphasis on giving the latest information that will help you get IEEE 1394 integrated into your automatic test system