Software Framework for Command and Operation of a Miniaturized Martian Lidar

Abstract

"When developing scientific instruments for space missions, multiple design cycles are required at different stages of the project. Ground Support Equipment (GSE) plays a central role, with software-based tools within the Electrical Ground Support Equipment (EGSE) enabling system control, data acquisition, and functional testing. As part of the Miniaturized LiDAR for Mars Atmospheric Research (MiLi) project, a prototype of a Martian Atmospheric LiDAR that aims to contribute to atmospheric research, providing detailed insights into aerosol distribution, cloud formation, and atmospheric structure, a software framework for the operation and control of this LiDAR instrument has been developed. The software serves as the interface between operators and the instrument, facilitating real-time execution, telemetry (TM) acquisition, and data processing. Its modular architecture enables coordination with various subsystems, ensuring adaptability to different operational configurations and test environments. A capability of the software is real-time control, incorporating PID regulation to maintain thermal stability across the instrument, optimizing performance under diverse environmental conditions. By enabling precise real-time control, TM supervision, and adaptive data handling, this software solution supports the validation and optimization of the MiLi LiDAR instrument. The application interface allows operators to interact with comprehensive visualization tools for signal analysis, system diagnostics, and parameter trend evaluation. To enhance measurement accuracy, the software integrates signal processing functions, while data logging and telemetry processing facilitate detailed post-analysis and system performance verification. The software developed plays a role in the operation, validation, and optimization of the MiLi instrument. Integrating real-time control, telemetry acquisition, and adaptive data processing, it ensures stable and efficient system performance under diverse conditions. Its modular design and thermal regulation enable interaction with key subsystems, supporting both laboratory testing and field campaigns."