Screenshot of GNSS navigation interface showing a world map, data visualization graphs, and information about a payload satellite's launch from the Russian Far East (PRC) on January 1, 2011.
A computer monitor displaying digital analytics with graphs and data visualizations in a dark workspace

Reference Orbit Software — Modernizing Mission Planning for Satellite Orbit Operations

🟥 Problem

Reference Orbit Software is a mission-critical application used by defense and aerospace teams to calculate and visualize satellite reference orbits for mission planning and operations.

The legacy interface was highly technical but lacked usability support, resulting in:

  • Difficult interpretation of orbital calculations

  • High cognitive load when working with dense datasets

  • Frequent input errors due to lack of validation and feedback

  • Cluttered navigation across complex orbital parameters

  • Steep learning curve requiring extensive training for new users

These issues increased mission planning time and reduced operational efficiency.

🟨 Objective

Redesign the orbit planning experience to improve usability, accuracy, and workflow efficiency while preserving the advanced technical capabilities required for mission-critical operations.

🟩 Approach

1. Domain & User Research

Worked closely with mission planners, engineers, and satellite system analysts to understand real-world usage of orbital planning tools.

Key user roles included:

  • Mission Planners

  • Satellite Engineers

  • System Analysts

2. Key Findings

Across user groups, recurring issues included:

  • Difficulty interpreting raw orbital data without visual support

  • Lack of input validation leading to configuration errors

  • Redundant steps in orbit setup workflows

  • High dependency on documentation for basic tasks

The system required users to interpret rather than interact, increasing friction and error rates.

3. UX Strategy

The redesign focused on transforming the system from a data entry tool into an interactive planning environment.

Key strategy decisions included:

  • Introducing guided input flows with contextual validation

  • Reducing cognitive load through structured information hierarchy

  • Enabling real-time system feedback for parameter adjustments

  • Supporting both novice and expert users through adaptive interface design

4. Interaction & Interface Design

Designed a modernized interface with emphasis on clarity, control, and real-time feedback:

  • Inline validation for orbital parameter entry to prevent errors

  • Interactive 2D/3D orbit visualizations for immediate spatial understanding

  • Modular dashboards displaying mission-critical information at a glance

  • Preset mission templates to reduce setup time for recurring operations

  • Toggleable views for orbital elements and reference modes

5. Testing & Iteration

Conducted multiple usability testing cycles with technical and non-technical users.

Key refinements included:

  • Enhanced visual hierarchy for faster scanning of orbital data

  • Real-time feedback system showing orbit changes dynamically

  • User-controlled visualization settings for flexibility in analysis

Collaborated closely with engineering teams to ensure alignment with DoD performance and accessibility requirements.

🟦 Solution

The final design transformed Reference Orbit Software into an interactive mission planning environment that supports both precision and usability.

Key improvements included:

  • Real-time visualization of orbital adjustments

  • Simplified workflow for orbit configuration and planning

  • Reduced reliance on manual calculation interpretation

  • Structured guidance for complex parameter entry

  • Improved consistency across mission planning tasks

🟪 Results

The redesigned system delivered measurable improvements in mission planning efficiency and usability:

  • 30% reduction in orbit planning time due to streamlined workflows and real-time feedback

  • 50% decrease in user input errors through inline validation and guided entry

  • Faster onboarding for new users through intuitive interface design and embedded guidance

  • Reduced reliance on external documentation and training materials

  • Improved user satisfaction with clearer, more responsive system behavior

Users described the system as:

“A major usability leap that reduced guesswork and frustration in mission planning.”

🟧 Strategic Impact

This project demonstrates how UX modernization of complex aerospace systems can significantly improve operational accuracy, speed, and user confidence without reducing technical capability.

It reinforces the value of UX in transforming highly technical tools into decision-support environments rather than manual calculation systems.