Improved Space Computer Program (ISCP): Very high throughput processing for 21/sup st/ century satellites

The Improved Space Computer Program (ISCP) is a U.S. Air Force Phillips Laboratory program to develop space computer systems qualified to meet the next generation of satellite system signal and data processing requirements. ISCP is divided into three phases: Requirements Validation and Architecture Analysis; Commercial Testbed Development; and Space Qualifiable Demonstration. Crucial to the success of this program is a clear understanding of the projected need for the system, from both the government and government-space-system-contractors' perspectives. Surveys to define this need are in progress and key issues are surfacing. What standard system interfaces should be adhered to or established? How much modularity is optimal? Will program implementation of system design tools change system development concepts for the future? Other issues relate to program focus (architecture versus enabling technologies) and reconciling specific requirements defined by potential system users. Phillips Laboratory is seeking the strong participation of potential system users, from both government and industry, in the requirements-definition process.