New Monitoring Interface for the AMS Experiment

TL;DR

The paper introduces a modern, scalable monitoring interface for the AMS experiment on the ISS, utilizing time series databases and visualization tools to enhance safety, efficiency, and remote operation capabilities.

Contribution

It presents a new AMS Monitoring Interface built with advanced data processing, visualization, and security features, replacing the legacy system for improved performance and automation.

Findings

Successfully deployed since January 2020

Enabled remote shift operations during COVID-19

Improved data handling and visualization capabilities

Abstract

The Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS) is constantly exposed to harsh condition on the ISS. As such, there is a need to constantly monitor and perform adjustments to ensure the AMS operates safely and efficiently. With the addition of the Upgraded Tracker Thermal Pump System, the legacy monitoring interface was no longer suitable for use. This paper describes the new AMS Monitoring Interface (AMI). The AMI is built with state-of-the-art time series database and analytics software. It uses a custom feeder program to process AMS Raw Data as time series data points, feeds them into InfluxDB databases, and uses Grafana as a visualization tool. It follows modern design principles, allowing client CPUs to handle the processing work, distributed creation of AMI dashboards, and up-to-date security protocols. In addition, it offers a more simple way of modifying the AMI and allows the use of APIs to automate backup and synchronization. The new AMI has been in use since January 2020 and was a crucial component in remote shift taking during the COVID-19 pandemic.