Which process involves identifying unusual spacecraft behavior and determining potential faults or threats?

Which process involves identifying unusual spacecraft behavior and determining potential faults or threats?

• A. Telemetry analysis.
• B. Anomaly detection.
• C. Planetary alignment.
• D. Mission debriefing.

Answer: (B)

Anomaly detection is the process of identifying unusual spacecraft behavior and determining potential faults or threats. It involves monitoring telemetry data—sensor readings like temperatures, voltages, orientations, and system statuses—and comparing current values to established baselines and models of normal operation. When something diverges from the expected pattern, alerts are generated, prompting fault isolation and corrective actions to protect the mission. This targeted focus on deviations from normal operation makes it the direct method for spotting faults or threats. Telemetry analysis is the broader examination of data streams, while planetary alignment and mission debriefing pertain to unrelated activities or post-mission review.