Working in mission operations is a unique and dynamic role that blends technical expertise, problem-solving, and real-time decision-making to ensure that critical missions run smoothly. Whether the mission is in space exploration, defense, or telecommunications, those involved in mission operations are responsible for monitoring, supporting, and sometimes making life-altering decisions to guide these missions to success.
In this blog, we’ll explore the day-to-day life of someone working in mission operations, highlighting the key tasks, challenges, and responsibilities that come with this essential role.
1. Starting the Day: Briefings and Handovers
The day typically begins with a mission briefing or a handover meeting from the previous shift, as mission operations often run 24/7. In these briefings, team members receive updates on mission status, any issues or anomalies encountered, and current objectives. This ensures everyone is on the same page and knows what to expect during their shift.
During the handover, the incoming team gets a clear picture of the current state of the mission. For example, in a space mission, the status of the spacecraft, communication links, and any ongoing maneuvers are discussed. In defense or emergency response missions, this might involve updates on tactical movements, weather conditions, or system checks.
Key Tasks:
Reviewing system health and performance data from overnight operations
Discussing critical updates on mission timelines or objectives
Prioritizing tasks for the day based on mission needs
2. Monitoring and Surveillance
A significant portion of the day is spent monitoring mission systems. Mission operations teams are responsible for keeping a close watch on mission-critical data in real time, ensuring that everything is functioning as expected. This could involve monitoring satellite telemetry, flight trajectories, or system diagnostics.
For instance, a team member working on a satellite mission may spend the day reviewing telemetry to ensure the satellite’s orbit is stable and that all systems, like power and communication, are operational. For someone in military operations, it may involve keeping track of surveillance data and identifying any potential threats.
Mission operators often work in control rooms with multiple screens displaying real-time data feeds. These feeds might display everything from system temperatures and power levels to vehicle speeds and navigation paths. Staying alert and vigilant is crucial to spotting any anomalies before they become critical issues.
Key Tasks:
Tracking live mission data and alerting the team to any deviations
Monitoring system performance and cross-checking against mission goals
Communicating with other teams to confirm real-time mission status
3. Troubleshooting and Problem Solving
No matter how well planned a mission is, unexpected issues can arise. When a problem occurs, the mission operations team must troubleshoot and respond quickly. Whether it's a sudden communication loss, a malfunctioning system, or an unanticipated environmental factor, operators are trained to assess the situation and take immediate corrective action.
A typical day might involve diagnosing system failures or analyzing data to understand an anomaly. The team will work collaboratively, often following established procedures for specific failure scenarios. However, when facing unprecedented challenges, they must think on their feet and sometimes improvise to ensure the mission stays on track.
For example, in space missions, unexpected solar activity may disrupt communications with a spacecraft, requiring operators to adapt transmission protocols to re-establish contact. In defense missions, an unexpected weather event might require a quick change in the movement or deployment of assets.
Key Tasks:
Identifying the root cause of issues or anomalies
Collaborating with engineers and specialists to develop solutions
Executing corrective actions based on established protocols or real-time decisions
4. Routine Maintenance and System Checks
Mission operations aren’t just about responding to crises — a significant part of the day involves conducting routine system checks and preventative maintenance. These checks ensure that systems continue to function correctly and that any potential issues are caught early.
Operators may run diagnostics on various systems, review performance logs, and update software or hardware as needed. For space missions, this might involve monitoring spacecraft temperatures, battery levels, and communication systems. In military operations, it could involve checking the operational status of vehicles, drones, or command and control systems.
Preventative maintenance is essential to avoid mission-critical failures. It often includes running simulations or tests to ensure that the equipment is functioning properly under all conditions and can handle any unexpected challenges.
Key Tasks:
Running diagnostic tests on mission systems to ensure optimal performance
Scheduling and performing maintenance based on mission timelines
Updating software systems or applying patches to improve performance
5. Communication and Collaboration
Mission operations are not a solo effort. Operators work as part of a highly coordinated team, often in conjunction with engineers, scientists, military personnel, or mission planners. Clear and effective communication is essential to ensure that everyone is aligned and working towards the same objectives.
Team members communicate through real-time communication channels, including video feeds, intercoms, or chat systems, to relay critical updates and share findings. Regular status updates and reports are essential to keeping everyone informed about the mission’s progress and any issues that arise.
In addition to the internal team, mission operations professionals often work with external partners. For instance, in space operations, there may be coordination with international space agencies, while in defense missions, it could involve collaborating with allied forces or intelligence agencies.
Key Tasks:
Providing regular updates on mission progress to internal and external teams
Collaborating with cross-functional teams to resolve issues or make decisions
Participating in briefings with mission leaders to adjust strategies as needed
6. Planning for Future Phases
Mission operations don’t just focus on the current moment. Planning for future phases is critical to ensuring the overall success of the mission. This could involve preparing for upcoming maneuvers, conducting simulations, or testing systems in anticipation of future mission requirements.
For example, space mission operators may be planning for an upcoming orbit adjustment or a data collection event. In defense operations, it could involve preparing for a change in strategy or adjusting asset deployment based on new intelligence.
By staying one step ahead, the mission operations team ensures that all systems and personnel
are ready for the next phase of the mission.
Key Tasks:
Preparing for upcoming mission objectives and timelines
Running simulations to test procedures for future phases
Ensuring equipment and systems are ready for the next steps in the mission
7. End-of-Day Reporting and Handover
As the shift comes to a close, operators prepare detailed reports on the day’s activities. These reports highlight key mission events, system statuses, and any issues that were resolved or remain outstanding. The next team relies on these reports to seamlessly pick up where the current team left off.
Operators must ensure that all critical information is documented, so there’s no ambiguity about the mission's status as the handover takes place.
Key Tasks:
Documenting the day’s mission progress and any anomalies
Compiling data reports on system performance and actions taken
Handing over responsibilities to the next shift team
Conclusion
Working in mission operations is a highly dynamic and rewarding role that requires constant vigilance, technical proficiency, and the ability to respond to unexpected challenges. From monitoring real-time data to troubleshooting problems and collaborating with cross-functional teams, the day-to-day life of a mission operator is never the same.
Whether the mission involves launching a spacecraft, managing a defense operation, or supporting a humanitarian effort, mission operations professionals play a critical role in ensuring success. Their work behind the scenes is essential to achieving mission objectives and keeping systems functioning smoothly, no matter the obstacles.