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Launch Processing System

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The Launch Processing System (LPS) is an automated, computer-controlled system at the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) which oversees and coordinates the processing and checkout of systems and components for the Space Shuttle launch vehicle and its payloads.[1] The LPS automatically performs tests on much of the vehicle components as they are being readied for launch, and alerts operators if any anomalies are detected.[2] The LPS also manages the launch countdown events, culminating in a successful launch.

Function

Early in the design of the Space Shuttle program, the expected launch rate was 12 flights per year.[3] The LPS was designed to oversee and manage the parallel processing of multiple orbiters and their subsystems in order to meet this launch schedule.[1] The LPS tracks and manages all components of the Space Shuttle launch vehicle from the time the individual components arrive at KSC, through checkout, integration, testing, installation, and finally culminating in a launch.

Any time a component is functioning, sensors within relay data on its performance back to the LPS, which checks these results against the expected normal conditions. If the result is unsatisfactory, the LPS then alerts an operator and provides data as to the nature of the component's performance, so that any fault may be isolated and resolved.[2]

Components

The LPS is comprised of 3 major subsystems: the Checkout, Control and Monitor Subsystem (CCMS), the Central Data Subsystem (CDS), and the Record and Playback Subsystem (RPS).[1]

Checkout, Control and Monitor Subsystem

Central Data Subsystem

The Central Data Subsystem (CDS) consists of a cluster of high-end minicomputers which store vital data such as vehicle test and performance data, test procedures, historical data, etc.[4] There are 2 primary interfaces into the CDS. The first is a real-time interface with the CCMS. The second is a video simulation interface which allows testing of firing room systems without the need to have a vehicle present.[1]


References

  1. ^ a b c d "KSC's Automated Launch Processing System". NASA. Retrieved July 20, 2009.
  2. ^ a b "Launch Control Center". NASA. Retrieved July 20, 2009.
  3. ^ "Space Shuttle History". Century of Flight. Retrieved July 20, 2009.
  4. ^ "Mission preparation and prelaunch operations". NASA. Retrieved July 20, 2009.
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