T2C2 for autonomous space systems

An assessment is made of the performance capabilities offered by the introduction of satellite Telemetry, Timing, Command and Control (T2C2) systems, whose most significant design feature is the integration of computers into system architetures. The goals of autonomy and onboard data compression are obtained by designing computers into redundant, fault-tolerant systems; the computers may perform functions ranging from the execution of stored commands to the autonomous control of entire spacecraft. Attention is given to the application of T2C2 to the NASA Space Station, and the radiation-hardening of T2C2 systems.