Acronyms Used in the Space Industry, Astronautics, and Astronomy
General Space Systems
- ACS – Attitude Control System
- ADCS – Attitude Determination and Control System
- CDR – Critical Design Review
- CDS – CubeSat Design Specification
- COMMS – Communication Subsystem
- COTS – Commercial Off-The-Shelf
- DSN – Deep Space Network
- EPS – Electric Power Supply
- OBC – On-Board Computer
- PCDU – Power Control and Distribution Unit
- TMTC – Telemetry Telecommand
- TT&C – Telemetry, Tracking, and Control
- TVC – Thrust Vector Control
- OMNI – Omni-Directional Antenna
Space Physics and Orbits
- CME – Coronal Mass Ejection (eruptive emission from the Sun)
- GCR – Galactic Cosmic Rays
- GEO – Geostationary Orbit
- GNSS – Global Navigation Satellite Systems
- HEO – Highly Elliptical Orbit
- LEO – Low Earth Orbit
- MEO – Medium Earth Orbit
- SAA – South Atlantic Anomaly
- TLE – Two-Line Elements (a format for distributing orbital element data)
Space Missions and Agencies
- FRR – Flight Readiness Review
- HST – Hubble Space Telescope
- ISS – International Space Station
- JPL – Jet Propulsion Laboratory
- STS – Space Transportation System
Spacecraft Components and Systems
- RACH – Random Access Channel
- RSSI – Received Signal Strength Indication
- RTG – Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator
- RW – Reaction Wheel
Space Radiation and Anomalies
- SEE – Single Event Effect
- SEL – Single Event Latch-Up
- SEU – Single Event Upset