Multi-purpose simulator for Plato mission

Abstract

This paper presents hardware and software solution for simulation of a group of cameras used by the PLATO satellite. The simulator can be configured either to work with the scientific processing unit or as the complementary loop attitude control processing unit. Configuration and monitoring can be performed remotely, which caters to cooperatively work and guarantees traceability for quality purposes. Because the system operates with database and configurable architecture, its performance can be modified to operate as standard generation element (CCSDS, e.g.) traveling via SpaceWire. Eight SpaceWire links for feeding processing system compose the simulator. The links may route data in real time rate configurable to 200Mbits/s, with representative images, using the RMAP protocol, it can run continuously up to two days of satellite operation. The Information database is stored in two solid-state drives with 500 GBytes capacity each one. Access for configuration and monitoring are made using TCP-IP protocol. Each simulator has a unique ID and is automatically recognized when connected to the Ethernet network. The software layer has graphical interface compatible but offers component for integration with other EGSE systems. The system has own housekeeping, which enables diagnosis operation and viewing by the operator. The system will be used by European groups: LESIA (France), DLR (Germany) and IWF (Austria).