Safety-Critical Verification & Validation for Space Systems
Comprehensive V&V strategies designed to maximize confidence in spacecraft software and systems when full pre-launch testing is not feasible.
If someone were to suggest that spacecraft are launched without being fully tested, the reaction would likely be disbelief. While spacecraft undergo rigorous verification and validation processes, it is true that they cannot be completely tested under actual space conditions prior to launch.
Unlike many other industries, space systems cannot be fully validated in their operational environment before deployment. The conditions of space — including microgravity, radiation, vacuum, and thermal extremes — cannot be entirely replicated on Earth. Additionally, launching a spacecraft solely for testing purposes is not economically viable, except in very specific cases such as certain launch vehicles.
This reality makes Verification and Validation (V&V) activities particularly demanding in the space domain. Achieving the highest possible level of assurance on the ground requires a structured and combined approach. Drawing on experience from more than fifteen space missions, we apply integrated strategies that combine Model-in-the-Loop (MIL), Software-in-the-Loop (SIL), and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) techniques to maximize coverage, efficiency, and risk reduction prior to launch.
Because in-orbit correction opportunities are limited and costly, lessons learned from previous missions play a critical role. Understanding past anomalies, architectural trade-offs, specification weaknesses, and detection methods is essential to strengthening current and future programs. Experience and methodological rigor are key enablers of robust safety-critical validation.
Independent Software Verification & Validation (ISVV)
Provision of ISVV services, including alignment with mission-specific tailoring of the European Space Agency ISVV Guide — a reference framework to which we have previously contributed.
On-Board Software Validation (TS/RB Validation)
Validation services that may cover the complete On-Board Software (OBSW), selected functional components, or continuation from a partially validated baseline.
AIT and Functional Verification Support
Support to Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) and Functional Verification (FV), including:
Functional testing of central software within FV/AIT test benches
Functional testing of equipment (e.g., star trackers)
Support to Proto-Flight Model (PFM) test campaigns
Our experience includes participation in missions such as CryoSat-2 (AIT and PFM support), ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter (functional verification support and team interfacing), and Sentinel-2 (interface support between OBSW and AIT activities).
On-Board Software V&V Augmentation
Execution of targeted V&V activities throughout the OBSW lifecycle, complementing or extending existing customer teams. This support can address peak workload periods, contingency scenarios, or outsourced verification scopes requiring specialized expertise.