A computer program defines and implements an innovative kind of data structure than can be used for representing information derived from serendipitous discoveries made via collection of scientific data on long exploratory spacecraft missions. Data structures capable of collecting any kind of data can easily be implemented in advance, but the task of designing a fixed and efficient data structure suitable for processing raw data into useful information and taking advantage of serendipitous scientific discovery is becoming increasingly difficult as missions go deeper into space. The present software eases the task by enabling definition of arbitrarily complex data structures that can adapt at run time as raw data are transformed into other types of information. This software runs on a variety of computers, and can be distributed in either source code or binary code form. It must be run in conjunction with any one of a number of Lisp compilers that are available commercially or as shareware. It has no specific memory requirements and depends upon the other software with which it is used. This program is implemented as a library that is called by, and becomes folded into, the other software with which it is used.
This program was written by Mark James of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free online at www.techbriefs.com/tsp under the Software category.
This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Karina Edmonds of the California Institute of Technology at (626) 395-2322. Refer to NPO-42086.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Representation of Serendipitous Scientific Data
(reference NPO-42086) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document titled "Representation of Serendipitous Data for Long-Term Mission Science Data Collection" (NTR-42086) discusses a novel software solution developed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) aimed at addressing the challenges of managing unexpected or serendipitous data collected during autonomous space missions. As missions venture deeper into space, the collection of unanticipated data becomes increasingly common, necessitating advanced methods for processing and utilizing this information effectively.
The software introduces a unique data structure that allows for the run-time definition of complex data formats, enabling it to adapt dynamically as raw science data is transformed into meaningful information. This flexibility is crucial for efficiently handling the diverse and unpredictable nature of serendipitous discoveries, which traditional fixed data structures struggle to accommodate.
A survey of existing software solutions revealed a lack of adequate tools capable of fulfilling these requirements, highlighting the innovative nature of this new approach. The software is designed to be domain-independent, making it applicable across a wide range of scientific and engineering applications. It has been successfully utilized for storing Deep Space Network (DSN) science data and for representing sensor data in Integrated Vehicle Health Management systems.
The software is compatible with various platforms, including SUN, HP, Intel, and Apple MACs, as well as flight processors. It can be distributed in both source code and binary formats, requiring a LISP compiler for operation. The memory requirements are flexible and depend on the specific applications in which the software is implemented. As a library package, it integrates seamlessly into the environments that call upon it.
Overall, this software represents a significant advancement in the field of data management for space missions, providing a robust solution for capturing and utilizing serendipitous scientific data. Its development aligns with NASA's broader goals of enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of both manned and unmanned science gathering programs, ultimately contributing to the success of future exploratory missions. The document also emphasizes the importance of compliance with U.S. export regulations and the proprietary nature of the information contained within.
