GP-B Post-Flight Analysis—Final Report - Gravity Probe B - Stanford ...

These steps are used to address all issues, from simple observations to major anomalies. This ensures that allissues are addressed in a uniform manner, that open vehicle issues are communicated to entire team on aregular basis, and that the issues are properly documented.5.3.6 Overall Effectiveness of GP-B Anomaly Resolution ProcessThe anomaly resolution process described above was developed and perfected during seven pre-launch missionsimulations and proficiency exercises. Lessons learned from each simulation were incorporated into theanomaly plan to create an effective and efficient process for the GP-B mission.Since launch, 193 anomalies/observations have been identified (through 13 October 2005): 5 major anomalies,12 medium anomalies, 5 minor anomalies, and 170 observations. This process was used to deal with all of theseissues, and we have found that this anomaly resolution process is:Effective:Efficient:Transparent:Robust:Anomalies are understood and corrected with little long term mission impact. Thetechnical teams were able to use the tools and structure provided to identify the rootcauses of the issues and mitigate them as appropriate.Heavy staffing, extensive training, and good communications technology bringsteams together rapidly and allows for efficient communications. The concentratedinformation resources in the anomaly room allowed the vehicle state to bedetermined rapidly and hypotheses to be checked quickly during the assessmentphase of investigations.All anomaly data made available “instantly” to the entire GP-B team via a secure webserver. This allowed team members around the world to follow progress andcontribute their expertiseGood training of members allows team members to work a variety of ARB roles whennecessary. The process does not rely on a few “key” members; it allows a significantgroup of people to fill the individual roles effectively.In summary, the process has been very effective and may serve as a model for other spaceflight programs. Adetailed summary of all mission anomalies and observations is found in Appendix D, Summary Table of FlightAnomalies.5.4 Risk AnalysisThe GP-B Risk Management Plan (S-O423) documents the approach that was successfully implemented onGP-B.5.4.1 Forward to GP-B Risk Management PlanRisk management process involves open communication among our organizations, with the customer, oursuppliers and other external interfaces. It is imperative that management create an atmosphere which welcomesrisk identification without fear of personal consequence.5.4.2 PurposeThe establishment of a risk management process provides a disciplined approach to the identification, analysis,and resolution of risk factors which may adversely affect ultimate program success. The goal of the riskmanagement effort is to provide the proper balance between risk and the elements of cost, schedule, andtechnical performance thus assuring program success.Gravity Probe B — Post Flight Analysis • Final Report March 2007 133