Graphical Cockpit-based Depictions of Space Vehicle Operations Based upon Use of Aeronautical Information Data Link Services

摘要

To facilitate a more efficient use of domestic and oceanic airspace while maintaining the current level of safety for the public, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is researching new technologies and capabilities that would speed the flow of flight critical information to necessary user recipients. The intent is to increase overall situational awareness for each user segment. To this end, the FAA is developing a Concept of Operations (ConOps) for the graphical cockpit depiction of space vehicle flight operations as part of a proposed addition to the FAAs Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) Integrated Work Plan. The emergence of cockpit-based data link technologies permits the provision and use of data linked aeronautical information services directly to aircraft as well as the sharing of this same information with Air Traffic Control (ATC) and with the airlines operational control (AOC) function. This concept represents an additional means of enabling a framework for seamlessly integrating space vehicles on their way to and from space with more traditional air traffic management functions. By developing a means to provide timely alerts to aircraft, greater airspace access should be maintained from all users, without disruptions to todays global airspace use while, at the same time, fostering the development of this new fledging industry.