Rapid space architecture development and analysis using an integrated toolset

Concurrent engineering methodologies (CEMs) have become standard practice for conceptual spacecraft design. These methodologies have been implemented in spacecraft design tools for use by single users as well as for multiple analysts linked over a network performing more complex or broader analyses. Along with the development of these tools, there has also been an increasing need to analyze future space system options at a broader, architectural level. The trade space for such an analysis may include constellation design (altitude, inclination, number), payload sizing, and spacecraft bus configuration. The goal is to be able to span a wide trade space while maintaining analytical fidelity, and arrive at an integrated solution in a short amount of time. This need was recently highlighted during Air Force Space Command´s operationally responsive spacelift (ORS) analysis of alternatives (AoA) study, in which several different space architectures had to be generated to support a rather compressed study schedule. This paper describes the development and utilization of the space architecture development and analysis tool (SADAT) which allowed rapid generation of hundreds of system options and the final selection of 30 different space systems to be included as part of the study. The extension of this tool to incorporate more models, such as launch vehicle sizing and cost estimation, extending automation and optimization, and its use as pre-study tool for the Aerospace Corporation´s Concept Design Center (CDC) are also discussed.