Technical Consulting

Expert guidance through critical design reviews, technical decision points, and mission lifecycle milestones

Overview

Flight software development for spacecraft involves complex technical decisions at every phase—from early architecture trades through final certification. Having an experienced consultant who understands both the technical requirements and the mission assurance process can be the difference between a smooth review and a program delay.

FSW Engineering provides targeted technical consulting services for spaceflight programs, bringing deep FSW expertise to support teams at critical decision points. Whether requiring an independent technical assessment, support for a design review, or guidance on certification approaches, FSW Engineering delivers practical advice grounded in real mission experience.

Consulting Services

01

Design Review Support

Preparation and participation in SRRs, PDRs, CDRs, and mission readiness reviews with technical analysis and recommendations.

02

Technical Assessments

Independent evaluation of FSW architectures, requirements, designs, or implementations with detailed findings and recommendations.

03

Trade Study Support

Analysis of technical alternatives for architecture, COTS vs. custom development, RTOS selection, and certification approaches.

04

Process Guidance

Advising on FSW development processes, standards compliance (DO-178C, NASA-STD-8739.8), and mission assurance approaches.

Review Types

System Requirements Review (SRR)

Assess software requirements derivation from mission objectives, interface definitions, and verification approach feasibility.

Preliminary Design Review (PDR)

Evaluate software architecture, major design decisions, interface control, and preliminary verification strategy.

Critical Design Review (CDR)

Review detailed designs, algorithm implementations, resource budgets, and comprehensive verification plans.

Flight Readiness Review (FRR)

Assess verification closure, as-built configuration, known anomalies, and operational readiness for flight.

Areas of Expertise

Architecture Evaluation: Assessment of FSW architectures for fault tolerance, real-time performance, and maintainability
Requirements Analysis: Review of requirements completeness, testability, and traceability to mission objectives
Certification Strategy: Guidance on DO-178C certification levels, NASA software classifications, and verification approaches
Mission Assurance: Independent assessment of software quality, fault management approaches, and mission risk
Interface Control: Review of ICDs, protocol specifications, and subsystem integration approaches

Engagement Models

FSW Engineering provides flexible engagement models tailored to project needs. Whether hourly consulting for technical questions, support for design reviews, in-depth technical assessments with formal reports, or ongoing retainer arrangements for continuous advisory support throughout the program lifecycle, engagement structures are customized to align with specific project requirements and timelines.

Need Expert Technical Guidance?

Contact FSW Engineering to discuss how we can support your program at critical decision points and design reviews.

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