A University Perspective on the NASA/SISO Smackdown Modeling and Simulation Outreach Event

Abstract

Modeling and simulation (M&S) functions as a method and set of tools to better realize and enhance the functionality of engineering systems. While M&S is extensively used as a required skill in many engineering professions, M&S itself lacks extensive academic programs at the university level. With the intent of alleviating this issue the NASA/SISO Smackdown competition aimed to introduce university students to the HLA-Evolved (IEEE 1516-2010) standard for federated simulation. Having participated in the competition with a focus on the logistics of a lunar fuel economy, the MIT team of graduates and undergraduates reflect in this paper on the standard itself and the competition as a whole. We make suggestions on what could be improved. The paper highlights the thought process with reference to the modeling approach used, how it shaped the final simulation, commentary on how future Smackdown events could be improved, and how teams could be rated. The paper also serves as a reference for future teams in terms of a suggested approach to tackling the HLA-Evolved standard and participating in the Smackdown competition events.