Ground Autonomy Evolution

Having focused on automation and autonomy in space-based systems in the previous chapter, attention is now directed toward ground-based systems, particularly the automation of spacecraft control centers. We describe a strategy for automating NASA ground-based systems by using a multiagent system to support ground-based autonomous satellite-subsystem monitoring and report generation supporting mission operations. Over the last several years, work has progressed on developing prototypes of agent-based control centers [2, 36, 86, 134]. With the prototypes has come an improved understanding of the potentials for autonomous ground-based command and control activities that could be realized from the innovative use of agent technologies. Three of the prototypes will be described: Agent-based Flight Operations Associate (AFLOAT), Lights Out Ground Operations System (LOGOS), and Agent Concept Testbed (ACT).

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