voula@utcsri.UUCP (Voula Vanneli) (02/20/85)
University of Toronto
Department of Computer Science
(SF = Sandford Fleming Building, 10 King's College Road)
COLLOQUIUM - Tuesday, February 26, 11 a.m., SF 1105
Uriel Domb, P. Eng.
Telespace Information Ltd.
"Onboard Computers for Space Applications"
(Coffee and cookies will be served.)
Abstract
Space missions have always required complex and sophisti-
cated computer support in order to carry out their wide
variety of tasks. Geosynchronous satellites require a high
degree of stationkeeping, near-earth orbit satellites need
precision orbit and attitude prediction, and deep space mis-
sions depend on highly accurate navigation. In addition
most of these spacecrafts transmit vast amounts of data
which they collect by various instruments and sensors.
Until recently theses computational functions could only be
performed on the ground by large and powerful computers, but
the current generation of microcomputers and micriprocessors
can and have taken over their predecessors on the ground and
especially onboard the spacecrafts themselves.
This talk will focus on the special requirements imposed on
these computers in the evnironment of space, and how these
computers have evolved to carry out the complex onboard com-
putational loads.