A comparison of systems engineering challenges and practices between space and ground based astronomical projects

This paper aims to compare various aspects of systems engineering between space and ground-based astronomy projects. After a brief roundup of the development of systems engineering practices in space, we discuss the rapidly progressing adoption of similar methods in complex ground projects. Special attention is given to the analysis of increasing system complexity on ground which leads to a commensurate increase in project effort and cost. The importance of development of enabling technologies and improvement of engineering methodologies are discussed by specific examples.