NASA is conducting work to anticipate data interruptions that could occur during satellite missions observing Earth. Lindsey Jacobson, a Pathways intern in engineering on the NESSIE team at NASA Langley Research Center, is developing tools that analyze the lifespans of satellite missions, possible events in orbit, and scheduling uncertainties.
Since 2022, Jacobson has returned to NASA Langley every summer, continuing her work alongside her doctoral dissertation in mechanical engineering at North Carolina State University. The analysis tools she is developing are intended to assess potential changes in the portfolio of Earth-observation satellites in advance and prepare alternative strategies to maintain data continuity.
Why it matters
The work shows that Earth observation depends not only on the performance of individual satellites but also on the coordinated management of the lifespans and schedules of different missions. Because gaps in data continuity can occur when events in orbit or uncertainties in mission schedules are not addressed at the portfolio level, the tools being developed provide a basis for evaluating alternative strategies in advance. This approach supports the NESSIE team in examining potential changes through different scenarios rather than managing them only after a problem emerges. Conducting the work alongside a doctoral dissertation establishes a direct link between academic research and mission planning at NASA. However, it is not explained which missions the tools will be used for, how the results will be incorporated into decision-making processes, or to what extent they will reduce the risk of interruptions.