Measuring the impact of launch operations upon satellite effectiveness
Abstract
Procurement decisions regarding Department of Defense satellite systems are usually based upon the assumption of a reliable and dependable launch system. Attempts to relate disruptions of launch operations to numbers of satellites on-orbit are often in the form of discrete-event simulations (requiring significant numbers of data inputs and large amounts of computer time). The approach which is adopted in this study is a form of continuous simulation (as opposed to discrete-event simulation), an approach which has traditionally been limited to analysis of systems in the physical sciences. The continuous simulation methodology requires significantly fewer inputs than discrete-event simulations and is amenable to being implemented on a programmable, hand-held calculator, saving expensive computer and data-gathering time. Several examples are provided which demonstrate how continuous simulation may be used to model disruptions in launch capability and various satellite operational philosophies.
- Publication:
-
Interim Report RAND Corp
- Pub Date:
- June 1980
- Bibcode:
- 1980rand.rept.....K
- Keywords:
-
- Computerized Simulation;
- Launch Windows;
- Military Spacecraft;
- Spacecraft Launching;
- System Effectiveness;
- Cost Effectiveness;
- Scheduling;
- Systems Analysis;
- Weapons Delivery;
- Launch Vehicles and Space Vehicles