Satellite Technician Advanced Training System (STATS)

It is very difficult to develop complex diagnostic skills in the absence of a tangible and concrete system context. Air Force space system operators are required to develop diagnostic expertise for spacecraft they have never and will never see. Thisproblem has been recognized by training cadre at Vandenberg AFB. A significant need exists for models of satellites which can used to reinforce classroom instruction. In order to meet this need we propose to develop the Satellite Technician AdvancedTraining System (STATS). STATS will provide a state-of-the-art 3D visualization display, which can be used to examine spacecraft models. STATS will provide 3D navigation functionality, ability for remove outer skins, and selection/highlighting ofsub-systems. Visualization will be coupled with a system simulation model used to generate realistic anomaly conditions. Anomaly parameters will be displayed in several formats designed to promote analytical diagnostic thinking. Both the visual modeland the indicators will be linked to the actual IETMs for the given spacecraft. The IETMs will be converted to XML to provide a complex linkage and cross-referencing between the 3D display, indicators, and IETM. Intelligent agent technology will beemployed to monitor and accelerated the diagnostic learning process. STATS represents an important training device for satellite operators across Department of Defense (DoD) services and agencies. It is similarly valuable to training commercial satelliteoperators. American business depends on over 150 commercially owned communications and imaging satellites, and the DoD manages and uses significant numbers as well. The war in the Balkans reportedly made use of four dozen satellites from nearly two dozencountries. Clearly, there is a demand for satellite operators, and the rapidly growing role of space in both military and commercial applications means that these operators will be increasingly challenged. Accordingly, high quality and thorough trainingwill become increasingly important for satellite operators. STAT represents a set of key components of that training - 3D satellite visualization, diagnostic simulation, and integrated IETM support. Training will be facilitated by the use of intelligentagents to maximize training effectiveness and potentially reduce training costs.