Version 2.0 of the autogen software has been released. "Autogen" (automated sequence generation) signifies both a process and software used to implement the process of automated generation of sequences of commands in a standard format for uplink to spacecraft. Autogen requires fewer workers than are needed for older manual sequence-generation processes and reduces sequence-generation times from weeks to minutes. The autogen software comprises the autogen script plus the Activity Plan Generator (APGEN) program. APGEN can be used for planning missions and command sequences. APGEN generates a graphical user interface that facilitates scheduling of activities on a time line and affords a capability to automatically expand, decompose, and schedule activities. The earlier version of the autogen software was developed for the Mars 2001 Odyssey spacecraft. Version 2.0 offers enhanced capabilities to serve, simultaneously, multiple spacecraft (including the Mars Global Surveyor, the Mars Exploration Rovers, and the future Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter) that may be at different phases of their missions (including cruise, aerobraking, mapping, and relay operations).
This work was done by Roy Gladden of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Karina Edmonds of the California Institute of Technology at (626) 395-2322. Refer to NPO-41501.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Autogen Version 2.0
(reference NPO-41501) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document is a Technical Support Package for NASA's AUTOGEN Version 2.0, identified as NPO 41501, developed by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). This software is designed to automate the generation of command sequences for various spacecraft, significantly enhancing mission operations in deep space and interplanetary missions.
AUTOGEN operates within a UNIX environment, which aligns with other mission operations software at JPL. This compatibility eliminates data transfer issues, as the command files produced are already formatted correctly for uplink to spacecraft. The software has been improved from earlier versions to support multiple mission phases and spacecraft simultaneously, including operations for the Mars 2001 Odyssey, Mars Global Surveyor (MGS), Mars Exploration Rovers (MER), and Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO). Its design allows for easy expansion to accommodate future missions and phases.
One of the primary challenges addressed by AUTOGEN is the complex nature of generating long-term command sequences for spacecraft, which often have unique operational quirks. The software automates this process, allowing for tailored solutions to various scheduling problems through the development of specific algorithms. This automation is particularly beneficial as it can reduce the time required for sequence generation from weeks to mere minutes, thereby decreasing the manpower and work-hours needed for mission planning.
The document also highlights the programmatic and utilization aspects of AUTOGEN, emphasizing its role in converting regular command scheduling patterns into algorithms. This capability not only streamlines the command sequence development process but also enhances the efficiency of mission operations.
In summary, AUTOGEN Version 2.0 represents a significant advancement in spacecraft command sequence generation, providing robust scheduling algorithms and compatibility with existing uplink software. It is a crucial tool for NASA's ongoing and future missions, aimed at improving operational efficiency and reducing the workload on mission teams. The document serves as a resource for understanding the software's features, improvements, and applications in the context of aerospace technology and mission operations.
