As part of the system software, MESSENGER will be using a file-based system for the transfer and processing of instrument and spacecraft data. The flow of files within the MESSENGER software architecture begins with the receipt of science data by the main processor and the creation of files containing these data by the flight software. The files are then autonomously selected for downlink via a priority-based algorithm, packaged for transmittal via the CCSDS File Delivery Protocol (CFDP), and radiated to the ground. The ground software reconstructs the files via its implementation of CFDP, performs further processing on the file, and sends it to the operations data archive and the Science Operations Center. The MESSENGER spacecraft operations team manages the overall handling of these files through interaction with both the flight and ground systems.
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