Why do astronauts use Linux? Because you can’t open Windows in space. Joking aside, the truth is that the heavens aren’t full of Linux computers – but all that could be about to change.
Over the next few pages, we’ll look at how Linux is becoming an important facilitator in space exploration. And that takes us from NASA’s supercomputers here on Earth through to laptops in orbit on the International Space Station (ISS) and flight control computers on SpaceX’s launch vehicles and spacecraft, to a single board computer empowering a helicopter flying on Mars.
As well as looking at where and how Linux is used in astronautics, we’ll also delve into why it’s used. The migration of Linux into space is a recent phenomenon, though, and it’s still far from universal. So, we’ll also investigate what has previously held Linux back in space and, to a significant degree, continues to do so today. We’ll also examine what the prospects are for it to boldly go where no operating system has gone before.
Operating beyond the Earth
We’re going to be looking at where Linux is being used in space exploration. But first, we need to consider space-based computing platforms and, in general terms, how they have influenced the operating system of choice.
Take the ISS, for example, which was launched over 20 years ago. With Linux being the new kid on the block back then, it wouldn’t have been given serious consideration and upgrading now would barely be feasible. Much of the in-built computer hardware wouldn’t support modern distros and upgrading the hardware and software
