Pass Execution Runbook Template Step by Step

A pass execution runbook is the authoritative, step-by-step blueprint that governs how a scheduled satellite pass is executed safely, consistently, and predictably. In scheduling automation and control environments, runbooks translate abstract schedules and automation logic into concrete operational behavior. They define what happens before a pass starts, how systems behave during execution, and how recovery is handled afterward. A well-designed runbook ensures that automation, control systems, and human operators all share the same expectations. It also provides a clear fallback when automation pauses or fails. As automation levels increase, runbooks do not disappear; they become more formal, explicit, and machine-aligned. A step-by-step pass execution runbook is therefore a core artifact of mature ground station operations.

What Is a Pass Execution Runbook
Why Runbooks Matter in Automated Operations
Runbook Scope and Preconditions
Step 1: Pre-Pass Validation and Readiness
Step 2: Resource Allocation and Locking
Step 3: Antenna and System Configuration
Step 4: Acquisition and Tracking
Step 5: Pass Operations and Monitoring
Step 6: Pass Termination and Teardown
Step 7: Post-Pass Validation and Recovery
Handling Anomalies and Escalations
Maintaining and Evolving Runbooks
Pass Execution Runbook FAQ
Glossary

What Is a Pass Execution Runbook

A pass execution runbook is a structured set of instructions that defines how a satellite pass is executed from start to finish. It captures the operational sequence required to turn a scheduled opportunity into a successful contact. Unlike ad hoc procedures, a runbook is designed to be repeatable and unambiguous. It defines not only what actions occur, but also the order, dependencies, and success criteria for each step. In automated systems, the runbook often serves as the conceptual model behind orchestration workflows. Humans and machines alike rely on it as the source of operational truth.

Runbooks exist to reduce variability. Even in highly automated environments, unexpected conditions arise and humans may need to intervene. A runbook provides clarity during these moments by defining the intended flow. It also supports training, auditing, and continuous improvement. When automation behaves unexpectedly, the runbook becomes the reference for diagnosing divergence. A clear runbook is therefore as important for exception handling as it is for nominal execution.

Why Runbooks Matter in Automated Operations

Automation does not eliminate the need for structure; it increases it. As systems act faster and with greater autonomy, the cost of ambiguity grows. Runbooks provide a shared mental model of how automation is supposed to behave. They make implicit assumptions explicit and expose hidden dependencies. This reduces the risk of misalignment between teams, systems, and stakeholders. In regulated or safety-critical environments, runbooks also support compliance.

Runbooks also enable trust in automation. When operators understand the step-by-step flow, they are more willing to allow systems to operate autonomously. Clear documentation makes behavior predictable rather than mysterious. Automation built on well-defined runbooks is easier to test and validate. Over time, this clarity enables higher levels of automation without sacrificing confidence. Runbooks are not a fallback for automation; they are its foundation.

Runbook Scope and Preconditions

Every runbook should clearly define its scope. This includes the type of pass it applies to, the systems involved, and any assumptions about the operational environment. For example, a runbook may apply only to routine data downlink passes rather than contingency operations. Explicit scope prevents misuse and misinterpretation. It also allows multiple runbooks to coexist for different scenarios.

Preconditions define what must be true before the runbook can begin. These often include a valid schedule, cleared safety interlocks, available resources, and successful pre-pass health checks. Preconditions act as a gate that prevents execution under unsafe or undefined conditions. Automation should verify these automatically, while humans should be able to confirm them manually if needed. Clear preconditions reduce the likelihood of starting a pass in a compromised state. They set the stage for controlled execution.

Step 1: Pre-Pass Validation and Readiness

The first execution step is validating readiness for the upcoming pass. This step confirms that all required systems are operational and correctly configured. It includes checking antenna availability, control system health, RF chain status, network connectivity, and environmental conditions. Any active inhibits or maintenance states must be evaluated. This validation ensures that automation proceeds only when execution is feasible.

Pre-pass validation also establishes a baseline snapshot of system state. Capturing this information supports later troubleshooting and analysis. If validation fails, the runbook defines whether retries are attempted or escalation occurs immediately. Clear outcomes prevent ambiguous partial execution. This step is intentionally conservative. Starting late is safer than starting unsafely.

Step 2: Resource Allocation and Locking

Once readiness is confirmed, required resources are allocated and locked for the duration of the pass. This includes antennas, RF equipment, spectrum assignments, and supporting infrastructure. Locking prevents conflicting activities from interfering with execution. It also provides clear ownership during the pass window. Resource allocation is a critical coordination point in shared environments.

The runbook must define what happens if allocation fails. Automation may attempt alternative resources or escalate to human decision-making. Partial allocation is generally unsafe and should be avoided. Explicit locking semantics simplify conflict management and recovery. When resources are locked intentionally, execution becomes deterministic.

Step 3: Antenna and System Configuration

This step prepares physical and logical systems for execution. Antennas are commanded to initial pointing positions, control modes are set, and RF systems are configured with correct frequencies and power levels. Configuration must occur in a defined order to avoid unsafe states. The runbook specifies timing offsets relative to pass start. Precision is critical at this stage.

Configuration steps should include verification. Systems must confirm that commanded states were achieved. Silent failures at this stage can compromise the entire pass. If configuration does not converge, the runbook defines rollback or abort behavior. Clear verification criteria prevent assumptions from creeping in. Configuration is not complete until confirmed.

Step 4: Acquisition and Tracking

Acquisition marks the transition from preparation to active communication. The antenna begins tracking the satellite and systems attempt to acquire signal. This step is time-sensitive and tightly coupled to orbital predictions. The runbook defines acceptable acquisition windows and thresholds. Tracking stability must be confirmed before proceeding.

If acquisition fails, the runbook specifies retry logic and escalation points. Automation may adjust pointing or timing within safe bounds. Humans may be notified if recovery attempts fail. Clear acquisition criteria prevent ambiguous partial success. This step determines whether the pass can deliver value at all.

Step 5: Pass Operations and Monitoring

During the active pass, systems perform mission-specific operations such as data downlink, uplink commands, or relay services. Monitoring is continuous and focused on link quality, system health, and safety constraints. The runbook defines which metrics are critical and what thresholds trigger intervention. Automation handles nominal adjustments while humans remain on standby.

This step is not static. Conditions may change rapidly as the satellite moves. The runbook defines allowed dynamic behavior, such as power adjustments or mode changes. Any deviation outside defined bounds triggers escalation. Monitoring ensures that automation remains within intended limits. Pass operations are successful only if completed safely.

Step 6: Pass Termination and Teardown

As the satellite leaves the visibility window, the runbook transitions systems out of active operation. Transmission is disabled, tracking stops, and antennas are commanded to safe positions. Resource locks are released in a defined order. Proper teardown prevents interference and prepares systems for subsequent passes. Termination must be as deliberate as initiation.

Teardown steps include verification that systems reached expected states. Residual activity can indicate faults or incomplete execution. The runbook defines cleanup actions if verification fails. Clean termination reduces risk for the next scheduled activity. It is a critical but often underestimated phase.

Step 7: Post-Pass Validation and Recovery

After teardown, post-pass validation confirms that systems are healthy and ready for future use. This includes checking antenna status, RF chain reset, and control system stability. Any anomalies are recorded and classified. Post-pass checks close the execution loop and provide accountability. They ensure that one pass does not degrade the next.

Recovery actions may be triggered automatically if issues are detected. The runbook defines when to attempt recovery and when to escalate. Clear outcomes feed back into scheduling and availability decisions. Post-pass validation turns execution into a learning process. Each pass leaves the system in a known state.

Handling Anomalies and Escalations

No runbook assumes perfect execution. Anomaly handling is an explicit part of the design. The runbook defines how automation pauses, retries, or escalates when unexpected conditions occur. Escalation boundaries must be clear and conservative. Human-in-the-loop mechanisms are invoked when automation reaches its limits.

Anomalies should be categorized consistently to support analysis and improvement. Clear escalation paths reduce confusion during high-pressure situations. The runbook ensures that response is structured rather than improvised. Predictable escalation is safer than silent failure. This structure protects both systems and people.

Maintaining and Evolving Runbooks

Runbooks are living documents that must evolve with systems and operations. Changes to automation, hardware, or policy require corresponding updates. Version control and review processes are essential. Outdated runbooks are more dangerous than none at all. Maintenance is a core responsibility, not an afterthought.

Operational feedback should drive refinement. Post-incident reviews and routine performance analysis reveal where steps can be clarified or improved. Automation implementations should be validated against the runbook regularly. Alignment between documentation and reality builds trust. A maintained runbook reflects operational maturity.

Pass Execution Runbook FAQ

Is a runbook still needed if everything is automated? Yes, because automation must be designed, validated, and supervised. The runbook defines intended behavior and escalation paths. It is the reference when automation deviates. Fully automated systems still require explicit operational models. Runbooks support trust and accountability.

Should runbooks be written for humans or machines? They should serve both. Clear human-readable structure supports operators, while precise step definitions support automation design. Treating runbooks as executable intent bridges this gap. Dual-purpose design is ideal. Clarity benefits everyone.

How detailed should a pass execution runbook be? It should be detailed enough to remove ambiguity without encoding low-level implementation specifics. The runbook defines what must happen and why, not necessarily how every command is issued. Balance is key. The goal is repeatability and safety.