Modular avionics and open systems architecture for future manned space flight

Alternative combinations of generic avionics modules for future manned space flight, such as in preliminary designs for the proposed NASA Advanced Manned Launch System/ Personnel Launch System (AMLS/PLS), are presented in this paper. The USAF Modular Avionics Systems Architecture (MASA) and the NASA/JSC "Space Generic Open Avionics Architecture (SGOAA)" standards are briefly described. Future manned space transportation will probably depend on a mix of vehicles, while anticipating continued use of the Shuttle Fleet through the first quarter of the 21st century. Proposed incremental avionics upgrade concepts to enable the Space Shuttle to operate to the year 2030, are also discussed.<
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