scope:

The attached report will make a cursory look at the various elements of how programs and projects understand and manage engineering the system and technical integration. Approximately 80% of the problems encountered in aerospace systems have been due to a breakdown in technical integration and/or systems engineering. Considered first, is the challenge of space flight and the major lessons learned while meeting the challenge. The report then discusses the process of how we accomplish a total design and operation of a space system with primary emphasis on launch vehicle systems.

Many of the principles and illustrations shown herein are extracted from the handouts of the MSFC courses: Space Launch and Transportation Systems (SLaTS) and Lessons Learned in Engineering. [Blair, Ryan, and Schutzenhofer, 2011]. Other detailed information can be found in other publications as referenced.