Satellite and satellite subsystems reliability: Statistical data analysis and modeling

In this paper, we extend our previous statistical analysis of satellite reliability and investigate satellite subsystems reliability (from the system to the subsystem level). Our objective is to contribute towards the complete identification of satellite failure mechanisms. We then conduct a comparative analysis of subsystems failure and identify each subsystem’s contribution to satellite failure. In so doing, we identify the “culprit subsystems” that drive satellites unreliability. The results presented in this work should prove particularly useful to the space industry for example in redesigning satellite and subsystem test and screening programs, or providing an empirical basis for subsystem redundancy allocation and reliability growth plans.