Implementation of an Integrated Avionics Unit for a space vehicle

An enabling technology platform, the Integrated Avionics Unit (IAU), has been developed and provides a number of functions to a host space vehicle in a compact form factor, tailored for the varied demands of Class D micro and mini satellite missions. The IAU is capable of interfacing with a solar array to efficiently couple energy to the power system and provides for charging and discharging of a battery, as well as monitoring its state of health. The IAU provides appropriate power switching and distribution for multiple spacecraft sensors, actuators, and communication loads as well as for internal power regulation for its electronics and for a spacecraft sensor network. The inputs and outputs of the IAU are organized to reduce the complexity of space vehicle harnessing. The IAU provides processing for command & data handling (C&DH) functions, guidance navigation and control (GNC), sub-system communication, and specific processing of sensor data. The IAU also houses both volatile and non-volatile data storage and can process data from these memories into CCSDS compliant packets for downlink. The IAU also supports appropriate signal, control, and telemetry interfaces to spacecraft sensors, actuators, and communication devices. This paper describes the implementation of the IAU, opportunities for further efficiency gains, and potential future capability growth.