Atos and CNES: A Strategic Partnership for Flight Software
Atos is proud to announce its latest endeavor with the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES) to evolve and maintain customizable flight software, known as LVCUGEN, for the next five years. This five-year agreement signifies a strong commitment from CNES, showcasing its trust in Atos as a pivotal technology partner in the realm of space exploration.
Development of LVCUGEN: A Collaborative Journey
Since starting their partnership in 2019, Atos and CNES have been actively working together on the development of the LVCUGEN software framework. This innovative and reusable customizable solution is designed for satellites and spacecraft, laying a solid foundation for embedded software development. At its core, LVCUGEN employs a robust assembly of software components, refined production processes, and specialized tools, providing users the ability to tailor the framework to their unique needs.
Ensuring Quality Through Advanced Techniques
As the main development and upkeep partner for LVCUGEN, Atos plays a crucial role in ensuring the software aligns with the requirements of both current and upcoming space programs. This capability allows academic institutions and industrial users to leverage the technology efficiently and unlock its full potential in their projects.
DevOps and Open-Source Technologies: The Future of Space Software
Atos emphasizes a modern development ethos by incorporating a DevOps approach combined with open-source technologies. This strategy fosters cooperation among various space stakeholders, guaranteeing exceptional quality while effectively reducing costs. The integration of automation promotes efficiency and shorter validation periods, adhering to the standards set by the European Cooperation for Space Standardization (ECSS).
A Testament to Collaborative Innovation
Atos aims to support CNES's mission in optimizing the development and operational efficacy of their embedded software. As Pierre-Baptiste Lambert, the Head of the Flight Software Department at CNES, emphasizes, "The increasing adoption of this innovative architecture by our partners in industrial, scientific, and academic fields highlights a significant achievement for CNES and emphasizes Atos's role as a key player in our ongoing and future significant space programs."
Enhancing Operational Success in Space Missions
Atos's expertise in space technology and embedded software development has allowed it to overcome critical challenges related to reusability, reliability, and cost optimization in spaceflight software. The platform has been successfully utilized in various high-profile missions, including JUICE, N3SS, EyeSat, Angels, Kineis, SVOM, and the MMX Mars mission's IDEFIX rover. This showcases the LVCUGEN's ability to tackle the ambitious objectives set by the space industry, ranging from traditional satellites to cutting-edge New Space nanosatellites.
Atos: A Leader in Digital Transformation
As a global frontrunner in digital transformation, Atos employs around 82,000 employees and generates revenues nearing €10 billion annually. The company stands as Europe's foremost entity in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and high-performance computing. With a commitment to aiding the transition toward a decarbonized digital environment, Atos provides tailored solutions across multiple industries in 69 countries.
About CNES: Driving France's Space Strategy
Since its inception in 1961, CNES has been pivotal in shaping France's national space strategy and ensuring the necessary resources for various space operations. The agency is recognized as an essential operator, contributing significantly to the European Space Agency (ESA) and spearheading initiatives that support the nation in various sectors, including land management, agriculture, health, and telecommunications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the new Atos and CNES partnership?
The partnership aims to evolve and maintain customizable flight software for satellites and spacecraft for the next five years, showcasing continuous collaboration and innovation.
How does LVCUGEN benefit space programs?
LVCUGEN provides a flexible, reusable framework for developing embedded software, which can be tailored by users to fit their specific requirements for current and future space missions.
What are the key technologies used in the LVCUGEN software?
Atos employs a DevOps approach alongside open-source technologies, promoting collaboration, enhancing quality, and ensuring the software meets stringent industry standards.
Which space missions have utilized the LVCUGEN solution?
LVCUGEN has been successfully deployed in notable missions such as JUICE, N3SS, EyeSat, Angels, Kineis, SVOM, and the MMX Mars mission's IDEFIX rover.
What positions Atos in the digital transformation landscape?
Atos is a leader in digital transformation, providing comprehensive solutions in cybersecurity, cloud services, and high-performance computing while focusing on sustainable digital progress.
