Use of personal computers in satellite command and control systems

The use of personal computers has increased dramatically over the last 20 years. They have transformed the workplace and become essential to many aspects of daily business and academic endeavors. For over 30 years, satellite command and control systems have used computers, but only in recent years have PCs been used in roles other than the traditional office applications like word processing and email. This paper looks at the advances in technology since PCs were first introduced in the 1980s and how they are currently being used in satellite command and control systems. Just as the PC has transformed the office environment, it is poised to transform the traditional paradigms associated with flying satellites.