SpaceCRAFT: A Virtual Reality Sandbox Environment

Paper number

IAC-17,B6,IP,3,x40795

Author

Mr. Robert Hogan, Texas A&M University, United States

Coauthor

Mr. Mauricio Coen, Texas A&M University, United States

Coauthor

Mr. Neil McHenry, Texas A&M University, United States

Coauthor

Dr. Greg Chamitoff, Texas A&M University, United States

Coauthor

Mr. Benjamin Morrell, The University of Sydney, Australia

Year

2017

Abstract

At present, it is essentially impossible to test a complete Space Mission Architecture in any integrated fashion, especially one with components designed and developed at different institutions worldwide. Future missions of exploration and settlement in Space will involve many technologies, systems and capabilities working together on a solar-system scale, including numerous spacecraft, habitats, rovers, robots, satellite constellations, communication arrays, space suits, landers, science instruments, life support systems, and tools such as teleoperation and advanced autonomous systems for robotic construction and other remote operations. SpaceCRAFT provides the capability for scenario-based operational testing in an integrated mission VR environment.


SpaceCRAFT is a new concept for collaborative space system and mission design. It is a Virtual Reality (VR) ‘Sandbox’ environment designed to enable government, university and commercial entities to collaborate in the design, use and evaluation of technology for future operations in Space. Taking advantage of high speed parallel computing, virtual reality systems and open source software platforms, SpaceCRAFT aims to enable any person or institution to contribute to humanity’s future in Space.

 
The development of SpaceCRAFT began in September 2016 with over 75 students on 12 teams contributing to the system architecture, physics models, plug-in capability, and demonstration missions. By the end of May, 2017, a beta version will be released to begin world-wide collaboration. This paper outlines the development of the architecture and the potential use of this program as a global space design tool. It will include a proof-of-concept simulation showcasing the creation of a "Space Positioning System"” that displays the robust power of SpaceCRAFT.

Abstract document

IAC-17,B6,IP,3,x40795.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-17,B6,IP,3,x40795.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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