Rideshare Mission Assurance on Multi-Payload Missions

Given the increasing number of missions that are including rideshares, an established method of assessing mission risks across programs with differing levels of risk tolerance is becoming essential. The DoD Space Test Program has developed a method for Rideshare Mission Assurance (RMA) that seeks to allow missions with different risk tolerances to fly together on a single launch, while shielding each mission from external risks to on orbit performance. RMA is a process that allows all mission partners to accept self-induced or programmatic risks (termed payload mission assurance risks) without having to evaluate any circumstances beyond their direct control. RMA is not a “classic” mission assurance practice, as it does NOT take into account the on-orbit functionality of the payload being assessed, and only assures that it will “Do No Harm” (DNH) to any mission partners. This paper details the basic criteria for assessing risks within the RMA process, as well as methods used to define and delegate these risks to the appropriate mission partners. Also included are the basic test levels recommended for proving compliance with the DNH premise of the RMA framework. The paper will also discuss the application of the RMA process to past and future missions