Developing an efficient Space System Rapid Design Center

A Space System Rapid Design Center (RDC) can be used in quickly sizing and estimating the cost of space systems. Given candidate mission requirements for a satellite or constellation, clean-sheet of paper designs can be formulated resulting in the definition of key system parameters, such as size, power, weight, and payload performance. Rough cost models (Unmanned Spacecraft Cost Model - USCM, Small Satellite Cost Model - SSCM) can be linked to this to assist in determining Life Cycle Cost estimates. Existing spacecraft buses can be compared to the clean-sheet of paper design to determine their suitability for a particular mission. Higher fidelity tools can be used to link the spacecraft design to the mission data to assess impacts on mission effectiveness. Comparing the capabilities of a RDC to that of traditional aerospace concept design team processes, vehicle designs and performance information can be produced with a fraction of the resources and in much less time