Skytek is a pioneer in the development of software for procedure support. As we enter a new era of crewed spaceflight, the proper solutions can dramatically reduce complexity and increase safety
Safety, Efficiency and Reliability in Space and Ground Operations
Skytek’s International Procedure Viewer (IPV+) is a robust software platform, mission-proven on board the ISS, designed to manage operational procedures across the full lifecycle, from collaborative authoring and review through to real-time execution on a range of mobile and AR platforms.
Developed in collaboration with ESA and NASA, it provides a structured and intuitive environment for performing complex operations both in orbit and on the ground.
Authoring
Rapid creation and management of structured procedures with version control and collaborative review workflows, through a web-based software as a service platform.
Validation and Safety Checks
An integrated validation engine ensures compliance with procedure definition standards and prevents errors before deployment.
Real-Time Execution Support
Procedures are executable by astronauts onboard, or by ground control teams in dynamic mission environments, on a range of mobile, wearable and AR devices.
Interoperability
Integrates with existing mission systems, databases and hardware interfaces, bringing telecommands and telemetry directly into operational procedures.
Versatility Across Domains
In Space
On Earth
Supports ground-based control centres, simulation environments, test centres (AIT), aircraft maintenance and training facilities.
Benefits
Gateway: A Deep Space Home, and So Much More
NASA is working with ESA, JAXA, CSA and other international partners to establish Gateway. Gateway is a vital component of the NASA-led Artemis missions to return to the Moon and chart a path for the first human missions to Mars. The small space station will be a multi-purpose outpost orbiting the Moon and providing essential support for lunar surface missions, a destination for science, and serving as a staging point for further deep space exploration.
- Building upon our IPV experience, Skytek is developing the new standard Flight Data File (FDF) software suite
- Complete end-to-end suite of tools from Flight Data File (FDF)
- Integration with telemetry and telecommands of Gateway subsystems
- Augmented Reality procedure viewer
- AI / Machine learning: execution & authoring support
"Skytek has decades of experience and a proven track record of developing software for the International Space Station. We look forward to working with Skytek as we send astronauts back to the Moon and beyond. The ground components of the software will also help to make ISS operations even more efficient."
As part of the Gateway program NASA’s Artemis I mission lifted off on Nov. 16, 2022, from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39B. This video includes highlights from the event.
Augmented Reality
Skytek is pushing the boundaries with Augmented Reality (AR) solutions designed for the harsh environment of space. Their proprietary technology, backed by two AR patents filed in 2022, is paving the way for efficient and intuitive operations.
Through active projects with the European Space Agency (ESA), Skytek is integrating AR to empower astronauts and ground teams. Imagine astronauts receiving real-time procedure overlays, and holding remote video conferences while viewing relevant equipment data, all seamlessly blended into their physical environment.
By understanding the real world and reacting dynamically, Skytek’s AR goes beyond simple overlays. Voice commands guide astronauts through complex tasks, keeping their hands free for critical operations. This intuitive interaction promises to revolutionize the way humans work in space.
With a focus on crew efficiency and enhanced situational awareness, Skytek’s AR solutions hold immense potential for the future of space exploration.
Two Patents
- Easy to use authoring environment for AR steps and procedures
- Link steps to 3D models, reference docs
- Creation of 3D animations shown in AR display
- Point to real world elements with onsite authoring or using 3D model in offsite which can then be recognized and highlighted during procedure execution
- Report automatically generated from AR device on procedure execution.
- Real time monitoring of procedure execution remotely via video feeds including AR elements (Head mounted display (HMD) and 3rd person point of view).
- Captures video streams from HMD for expert review and archiving.
- Auto generation of updated CAD model of equipment on which AR procedure performed with new elements placed/removed.
Skytek AR and the European Space Agency
Virtualisation
With the lifespan of the International Space Station (ISS) extended, older systems continue to provide vital services. Still, ageing IT equipment requires updating while maintaining full compatibility and data integrity. Skytek has developed fully virtualised environments that replicate legacy systems with modern hardware that upgrade the Columbus module’s data management system (DMS) ‘brains of the ISS’.
Skytek provides:
- Fully compatible operational environments
- Virtualized laptop environments supporting payload and experiment control
