SCF-62

Spacecraft Verification and Validation

Understand what is required for spacecraft verification and validation.

Proficiency levels

Level Description
Aware
  • Can describe key terms and fundamental principles related to verification and validation (V&V).
  • Can describe the importance of V&V in ensuring that spacecraft meet design specifications, system requirements, and mission objectives.
  • Can describe processes involved in tracing system requirements to verification activities and the need for evidence-based validation.
Practitioner
  • Can explain how to trace verification requirements to spacecraft system requirements.
  • Can create a Verification Control Matrix (VCM) derived from spacecraft requirements, covering all levels of testing from unit-level to system-level verification.
  • Can identify, plan, and analyse system-level test activities for spacecraft verification.
  • Can diagnose simple faults during testing, document findings clearly, and communicate and follow up on corrective actions.
  • Can apply standard practices and tools to manage and complete spacecraft V&V activities.
  • Can prepare comprehensive evidence and documentation for customer acceptance, demonstrating compliance with requirements and mission readiness.
Senior Practitioner
  • Can critically review and evaluate verification activities to ensure all spacecraft V&V objectives are fully addressed.
  • Can diagnose complex faults and anomalies during spacecraft verification, providing clear documentation, communication, and resolution strategies.
  • Can develop and optimise spacecraft V&V strategies to balance project risks, costs, and schedules.
  • Can troubleshoot complex, system-level verification issues, ensuring smooth integration, testing, and deployment of spacecraft.
Expert
  • Can lead cross-functional teams in managing V&V activities, ensuring alignment with technical, operational, and regulatory requirements.
  • Can lead the development of advanced VCMs and the integration of cutting-edge technologies (e.g. digital twins, AI/ML-based fault analysis, or automated testing platforms) into V&V processes.
  • Can anticipate and mitigate high-impact risks associated with spacecraft validation.