An improved text mining-based space mission risk classification approach

In this paper, an improved approach for space mission risk classification based on text mining is proposed. The method consists of the text mining of extracted bibliographic data with an improved accuracy compared to previous works. Based on these data, a weight is attributed to each of the identified risk parameters and a total mission class score is calculated. A quantification of the interrelation of these parameters, with the use of the t-score metric, together with the appropriate visualization is also provided for further analysis. The proposed method serves as an assistant tool to the appointed panel of experts that is traditionally tasked with the assignment of weights to the parameters. It allows for the consideration of parameters of widely different importance, even by almost an order of magnitude. Eight classification parameters are assessed including: (a) Criticality to the Agency, (b) Objective importance, (c) Cost, (d) Lifetime, (e) Complexity, (f) Manned mission, (g) Destination, and (h) Omega Factor. The most important parameter is shown to be the Complexity of the mission contributing around one fourth of the total weight. Finally, the NASA Mars Perseverance mission is used to demonstrate the application of the classification algorithm.

Automated summary

This paper proposes an improved approach for space mission risk classification based on text mining, which has higher accuracy in extracting bibliographic data compared to previous works. It assigns weights to identified risk parameters and calculates a total mission class score based on these data. The interrelation of these parameters is quantified using the t-score metric and appropriate visualization is provided for further analysis. The method serves as an assistant tool for experts in assigning weights to parameters and allows for the consideration of parameters with widely different importance. The application of the classification algorithm is demonstrated using the NASA Mars Perseverance mission.