SCL

Ground Software

SCL for Ground Workstations and Servers

Spacecraft Command Language (SCL) is a highly automated reusable and extensible command and control system. It combines a real-time Expert System and Command Interpreter, which enable it to both event-driven (using rules) and time-based or procedural (using scripts). The SCL Real-Time Engine (RTE) provides a multi-tasking execution executive for testsets, simulations, control centers and a variety of industrial control solutions. Additionally, the system runs in embedded systems allowing a symmetrical architecture between workstations and embedded systems.

Using a message oriented middleware called the SCL Software Message Bus, SCL is modular and loosely coupled which increases flexibility for scalability and the addition of mission unique software applications. The full-featured scripting language is designed for ease-of-use and doesn’t require a software professional to develop scripts and rules. It also allows engineers, technicians and test conductors to author the SCL logic and exercise the system and the end-unit article.

The SCL system has provided 24/7 service for the several spacecraft missions. The FUSE Mission Operations Center was built around SCL and operated continuously for more than 8.5 years. The TacSat-2 Mission Operations Center used SCL for the one year Pathfinder mission for the Operational Responsive Space Office (ORS). SCL continues to be used in several satellite testsets and is being used as the testset for the NASA Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle.

The SCL system is augmented with a Graphical User Interface called RIMS. Remote Intelligent Monitor System (RIMS) is a web-centric toll built on top of the SCL system. RIMS provides a real-time display of monitored data using a set of graphical widgets such as Gauges, Strip Charts, Meters, text items. Color-coded alarms allow the system to draw the operator’s attention to an anomalous situation. The RIMS system enables rapid deployment with minimal fielding and support costs. The RIMS system runs on a web server and uses a Java thin-client technology. This minimal setup allows the system to be centrally maintained and backed up. Users may log in from other workstations on the network without license keys or other security devices. The drag and drop editor enables the user to lay out screens as needed.

The RIMS and SCL systems are portable to a wide variety of platforms including: Windows XP/Vista, Red Hat Linux, Solaris, and AIX. Other Operating System ports can be performed under contract.

The RIMS system can be tailored by SRA or the customer to meet mission unique requirements. Additional capabilities can be added to RIMS in a seamless manner. The RIMS system can also be branded by the customer or project.

The SCL system provides an Application Programmer’s Interface (API) at many touchpoints and can be exploited as an “application enabler” for your project. Examples are available to assist developers in expanding the system.

The SCL Ground software system includes:

  • SCL Real Time Engine
  • SCL Compiler
  • Message Software Bus
  • Packet Generator
  • Scheduling Manager
  • Command Execution Manager
  • RIMS Graphical User Interface
  • SML - Command/Telemetry Definitions and Packet Formats.

SRA also provides several training classes for users, developers, systems integrators and management:

  • Introduction to SCL: designed for technicians, engineers, developers and managers who need to know the basic capabilities of SCL, script and rule development, database definition, and hands-on use of the SCL toolset with 20+ labs.
  • Advanced SCL Ground Systems: designed for developers and Systems Integrators to understand the SCL API, advanced tool usage, and hands-on development of mission unique software under control of SCL and integrated with the SCL system.
  • Introduction to RIMS: designed for Systems Integrators looking to brand the RIMS application, develop data display screens and integrate limited commanding from those screens.

Consulting and customization is available on a contract basis, please contact space@sra.com for more information.