Flight Dynamics (FDS)

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The FDS system supports missions that require communication between satellites and ground systems in order to estimate the position of a satellite, as well as perform any maneuvers to keep the satellite in a nominal position. Applications like this are use by OA's (Orbital analyst's) to complete the previously mentioned tasks. Some key features of FDS include Orbit Determinations (OD), generating products (Ephemerides, TLE’s, reports, etc.), and Maneuvering, such as station keeping, conjunction assessment, and COLA’s (burns).

This is a sample application that my team and I helped build for Rocket Communications. Sample Applications like this are used to help secure contracts.

There is not a current unified flight dynamics solution. Space vehicle operators were using outdated software, off the shelf software or a combination of multiple different tools to complete their necessary tasks. They had to manually transfer data, navigate through system folders, and for every new space vehicle they had to close and reopen the software. 

• User interviews
• UX audits
• SME interviews
• Service blueprints
• Journey maps
• User testing
• A/B testing
• Usability heuristic audits

• Extremely complex subject matter
• Requirements
• Specific use cases
• Utility tool kits

Following the initial research and subsequent design iterations involving operators and stakeholders, the resulting design effort was aimed at creating a unified and efficient design that reduces redundant user tasks needed to support essential functions and workflows, while also being versatile enough to meet unique mission requirements. The application is designed to function in its own browser window, allowing operators to focus on their tasks, with Utility Tool Kits available for accessing secondary workflows without taking up the default screen space. The FDS app is configured to support single or multi-monitor workstation setups.