Software Engineering standards and Satellite development– The Indian Space Research scenario

Paper number

IAC-09.D3.4.11

Author

Mrs. Prasada Kumari, ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC), India

Year

2009

Abstract

ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC)  of the Indian Space Research Organization   develops satellites for a variety of earth  observation, communication, navigation and  scientific applications . These  satellites  consists of highly complex software intensive   systems  which  carryout  variety of   highly advanced  mission functions .As a result ,  software  has  become a critical element for mission success. Realizing  the  importance of  establishing and following   best practices for software development  , way back in the  early 90s ISRO brought out its Software Engineering Standard  ISES 92 (ISRO Software Engineering Standard) which has been rigorously followed till 2008 not only   in  ISAC  but also in all the centers of ISRO. The standard  played a vital role in the  development   of highly reliable software  in  both  space  and ground segments. 

However  in the year 2008, when India entered  the international market  for satellite technology development , compliance with international  standards  became  essential and  ISRO   decided to follow   IEEE12207  software  standard  for all its software activities . Since  the reliability requirements  of software varies for  systems on board  and those  for launch support   and  mission  operations   ,  the process rigor    for different categories  of software were identified and the standard adapted accordingly. Yet another area is  software for  safety critical systems  for the   Indian Navigation System Satellites and   Human Space  programs , which  need  safety certification . DO178-B  software safety  standard  will be  rigorously followed for such  missions.

This paper  after  introducing  the  proven merits of   adopting Software Engineering standards for  reliable software development, describes  how  smoothly   ISAC migrated  to new  standards  from time to time   without  affecting   on going  processes  and upsetting   launch schedules . It is evident that  since   a good quality system   and a well organised quality planning process  exists , any  future challenges can be met . This   is  very much relevant  in the wake of India planning  many  ambitious  planetary and interplanetary  mission  for the future.

Abstract document

IAC-09.D3.4.11.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-09.D3.4.11.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.