Distributed data processing in the GLAST instrument
Michael N. Lovellette, KENT S. WOOD, R. S. Williamson, P. F. Michelson · 1997 IEEE Nuclear Science Symposium Conference Record · 2002
The Gamma-ray Large Area Space Telescope (GLAST) requires extensive on-board computing capabilities to reduce the maximum data rate of 50 Mbps to a tractable 100-200 Kbps that can be stored on-board for later downlink. The modular nature of the GLAST instrument leads to a distributed processing topology that can be implemented in a way that also provides the redundant functionality required for a major space instrument. This system can be produced using technologies that are currently available, and that have either already been flown in space, or that will fly shortly.