Lessons Learned from 3 Editions of an Introductory Course in Space Mission Operations

摘要

The global small satellite market is growing in both commercial and government arenas creating a need for skilled personnel to operate missions, and/or to contract with specialist mission operators. This paper describes a training course developed and delivered collaboratively to give professionals a practical introduction to Space Mission Operations. The key differentiator to other training options is that the course is delivered on a working ground station giving delegates access to experience a live environment. Two things drive the delivery of the Introduction to Space Mission Operations course: a shortage of skilled mission operators and an overarching training programme to equip new operators to control missions. Traditionally, mission operators learn their trade on the job, but this is becoming less acceptable.