Preparation for Advanced Space Robotics Simulations in MOTS (the MSS Operations and Training Simulator)

Abstract

The Mobile Servicing System (MSS) Operations and Training Simulator (MOTS) is an established MSS simulation system in the International Space Station program. It has been designed and prepared to support anticipated training and operations activities that require a holistic operational perspective and quick and reliable responses. To date nominal sessions for general training and evaluation of flight files and procedures for operational scenarios have been supported. More challenging roles lie ahead. To properly accomplish these roles the MOTS must demonstrate a superior capability to produce representative performance conveniently, cooperatively, and with confidence. To perform conveniently the MOTS must be proven to support user interaction and data access by an easily controlled interface and to support new and varied activities. To perform cooperatively the MOTS must be proven to interface with external systems as elegantly as the MSS itself must interface with other ISS components. To perform confidently the MOTS must be proven to properly represent MSS performance in detail, proof that can only be obtained with respect to flight performance and data. Therefore the MOTS must be prepared to validate to flight data in real time. These are the key elements of advanced space robotics simulations.