This Standard defines the dependability assurance programme and the dependability requirements for space systems.
Dependability assurance is a continuous and iterative process throughout the project life cycle.
The ECSS dependability policy for space projects is applied by implementing a dependability assurance programme, which comprises:
• identification of all technical risks with respect to functional needs which can lead to non-compliance with dependability requirements,
• application of analysis and design methods to ensure that dependability targets are met,
• optimization of the overall cost and schedule by making sure that:
- design rules, dependability analyses and risk reducing actions are tailored with respect to an appropriate severity categorisation,
- risks reducing actions are implemented continuously since the early phase of a project and especially during the design phase.
• inputs to serial production activities.
The dependability requirements for functions implemented in software, and the interaction between hardware and software, are identified in this Standard.