Ground segment programmer
Description
This occupation is part of the artificial satellite projects that incorporate applications aimed at offering various services: navigation, communications, meteorology or remote sensing satellites, among others. In these space projects, there are two fundamental parts: the on-board segment (the software part installed in the satellite) and the ground segment. The ground segment is understood as the entire set of systems (base stations, communications networks, etc.) that are used to communicate with the satellite. In other words, the systems that make it possible to receive and send the information necessary for performing the tasks for which these applications were built. The ground segment programmer is in charge of the part of the application that is on Earth: design, programme, install and test the satellite communication modules. They are also responsible for obtaining data and presenting the information to the user.
Tasks
- Define the system together with the data acquisition engineer. They can participate in the establishment of protocols and communication systems between the ground station and the satellite. To perform this task, one needs knowledge of the complete system (hardware and software), both of the ground segment and the on-board segment.
- Participate in the functional design (which is what the application must do) and technical design (how it is applied).
- Once the project is defined, they programme the code in order to meet the project's functional specifications. Use the planned technology based on each case (C, C++, Java, Visual C++, Visual Basic, etc). One must take into account that, in the projects on which these professionals work, the requirements are very strict, especially with regard to security and reliability.
- They also oversee the design of the databases and satellite communication interfaces responsible for receiving the information.
- Design and put into practice the method through which the end user will be able to access this data, which is called the Graphic User Interface (GUI).
- They are responsible for testing and adapting the system in order to carry out 'tuning', which is an adjustment or regulation of the set before the system enters the operation phase. This phase is very important in these types of projects, since it is necessary to guarantee the satellite's correct operation when it is in space.
- During the process, manage the necessary documentation: technical documents on the project and user manual.
