WIKIARCHIVES.SPACE

Orbiter/payload avionics integration testing is a relatively new activity in the shuttle program. Payloads flown to date have shown extensive orbiter interfaces. This paper describes the three modes of testing at Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station used to verify orbiter/payload avionics interfaces. These modes consist of orbiter testing using generic payload simulators, payload testing utilizing the actual payload and a high fidelity orbiter simulator, and interface testing with the actual orbiter and payload. Several special avionics techniques, such as the split flight computer technique have been developed to accomplish this testing. Experience from the first six shuttle cargoes is reviewed with emphasis on problems found in testing that would have hampered mission success.