Merging spacecraft software development and system tests : an agile verification approach

Abstract

In this dissertation, the author describes an agile verification approach for spacecraft onboard software that allows for software development guided by system tests performed with the actual spacecraft. The approach was applied for the Flying Laptop small satellite, built and operated by the Institute of Space System (IRS) at the University of Stuttgart, Germany. This work contains examples of practical experience gathered during the system testing campaign of Flying Laptop.