Space Acronyms

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