Science to operations: challenges, rewards, and pitfalls of converting algorithm science code to operational code

Abstract

The NGST/Raytheon Contractor Team selected to build and operate the system has responsibility for both hardware and algorithms 1 . This paper describes the process being used by the NGST/Raytheon team to convert science-grade algorithm code to operational code. Also discussed are the challenges, rewards, and pitfalls associated with the process of converting an evolving science-grade algorithm code to pre-launch operational code. A major challenge is dealing with two simultaneous feedback loops; one between the NGST and the sensor vendor; another between NGST and its Raytheon partner to convert an evolving and immature science product to an operational product.

Algorithm science to operations for the National Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS) Visible/Infrared Imager/Radiometer Suite (VIIRS)

“…These physical facilities are supported by software and activities which enable the conversion in near real-time of raw telemetry data from spacecraft instruments to produce Sensor Data Records (SDRs) 1 , Environmental Data Records (EDRs) 2 , as well as additional outputs including Intermediate Products and Quality Flags. The 1 Sensor Data Records (SDRs) are full resolution sensor data that are time referenced, Earth located, and calibrated by applying the ancillary information, including radiometric and geometric calibration coefficients and geo-referencing parameters such as platform ephemeris.…”

“…These physical facilities are supported by software and activities which enable the conversion in near real-time of raw telemetry data from spacecraft instruments to produce Sensor Data Records (SDRs) 1 , Environmental Data Records (EDRs) 2 , as well as additional outputs including Intermediate Products and Quality Flags. The 1 Sensor Data Records (SDRs) are full resolution sensor data that are time referenced, Earth located, and calibrated by applying the ancillary information, including radiometric and geometric calibration coefficients and geo-referencing parameters such as platform ephemeris. 2 EDRs are geophysical parameters that range from atmospheric products detailing cloud coverage, temperature, humidity, and ozone distribution; to land surface products showing snow cover, vegetation, and land use; to ocean products depicting sea surface temperatures, sea ice, and wave height; to characterizations of the space environment.…”