Fidelity Evaluation Model for Planetary Mission Simulators: Part I - Simonaut Survey

Abstract

Space agencies are planning the next generation simulators in preparation for future human missions to Moon and Mars. Simulators serve as tools to test new technologies, habitat design, procedures, protocols, physiological requirements and psychological countermeasures. This paper focuses on simulator fidelity. Simulator fidelity, as defined by the research team, is: The degree to which a simulator system accurately reproduces the habitat (and/or transit vehicle) conditions, the Planetary Body of Interest (PBI) environment, procedures, protocols and operations of a real mission. Simulator fidelity is critical because the data collected and lessons learnt from simulations are intended for application towards the design of real space missions in the future. If simulator fidelity is compromised, then the simulation data generated might lead to erroneous conclusions. If such data is then used in the design of real missions, it has the potential to adversely affect the crew and in the worst case, even jeopardize the mission.The paper begins with the definition and overview of simulators. This is followed by a discussion about fidelity standards outlined in a recent study by the European Space Agency and recommendations emerging from a workshop in Colorado focusing on improving the quality of future simulators. These recommendations reinforce the need for a 'Fidelity Evaluation Model' to measure, compare and improve fidelity of future simulators. As a first step towards the development of a Fidelity Evaluation Model, the authors gather data associated with simulator fidelity via a questionnaire-based survey of simulator crew members, referred to as simonauts. The authors debrief simonauts from the NASA Lunar Mars Test Project and the Mars Society simulations. The paper concludes with a summary of the survey outcome and a brief discussion of what the authors envision as the next steps in the development of the Fidelity Evaluation Model.

A Systems Engineering Process for the Development of Analog Missions for the Vision for Space Exploration

“…One group has created a Fidelity Evaluation Framework (FEF) to compare the fidelity of different analogs. 2,3 There are three components to this framework. First, Mohanty, et al, as well as other sources, created checklists to list elements and subsystems that are important for accurate simulations of analogs.…”

“…NEEMO 6 -Incorrect role sharing: Maintenance/housekeeping crew separate from aquanauts -More one-on-one time between engineers and crew with NEEMO than with ISS -Divers could refill oxygen at waystations during a dive LMLSTP 7 -Tools supplied to the crew members from outside during the simulation -Unscheduled and unnecessary transfers of supplies (not isolated) -No time lag on communications -No simulation of Extravehicular Activity -Easier rescue and low-risk mission could affect judgment, engineering, etc.…”

“…-Were able to talk to family every day with videoconferencing MDRS and FMARS 7 -Had to break simulation: repair, unsuited safety person for protection from bears -Limited (and not strict) exercise regime -Face-to-face contact with press and locals (MDRS) during simulation -Food system: regular groceries, fresh goods (not freeze dried) -Non-strict mass limits and more frequent re-supplies than a space mission -No team building prior to some missions -Training occurs on-site before simulation starts -Life support systems 'open' -Living conditions more comfortable -large areas of personal space -Living design was not extensively traded or studied -just one possible design Rovers (Fido and Desert RATS) 8,9 -Worked with rovers first in field while not in simulation to test them and set them up It would be impossible to make an analog mission on Earth the exact replica of the space mission. Therefore, there will always be aspects of the analog mission that do not exactly match the analogous space mission, but those aspects should be listed out so that it is understood what areas of the analog do not have high fidelity.…”

“…"To create a cross-cutting Earth-based program to minimize cost and risk while maximizing the productivity of planetary exploration missions, by supporting precursor system development and carrying out system integration, testing, training, and public engagement as an integral part of the Vision for Space Exploration." 1 The Initiative includes 1,2 : -Learning: system of systems, driving requirements, concept of operations, etc.…”

“…1 Systems Engineer, Mission Concepts, 4800 Oak Grove Dr., M/S 301-180, Member. 2 Program Systems Engineer, Mission Concepts, 4800 Oak Grove Dr., M/S 301-180, Member A…”