Concept and Feasibility Study of Flight Software Reprogramming for Next-Generation Satellites
Abstract
Satellite flight software (FSW) requires extremely high reliability and robustness, since any software fault occurring after launch can directly result in mission failure. Therefore, onboard reprogramming capability that enables software correction and update during in-orbit operations is essential. This paper analyzes the FSW reprogramming architecture implemented in the onboard computer (OBC) and presents a structured procedure and verification methodology for performing reliable software updates in orbit. To support dependable reprogramming, key FSW design requirements are identified, including resource margin, parameter handling, linking mechanism, fault detection and correction, and compiler/linker considerations. Both SDRAM-based and non-volatile memory (NVMEM)-based reprogramming methods were implemented and evaluated using a KOMPSAT flight software simulator (FSS) based on a GR740 processor emulator and a ground test facility. The results demonstrate that both approaches successfully perform code patching and system reconfiguration, confirming the feasibility of in-orbit FSW updates. This work is expected to enhance mission reconfiguration capability for next-generation satellites and contribute to improving the reliability and maintainability of onboard software update technologies.