Iterative Process in NASA Spacecraft Development

Building a NASA spacecraft isn't about just following a list of instructions. Engineers know that

if they just take a list of requirements and run with it, they risk building the completely wrong

thing. The process is all about constant communication. It starts with a big idea from stakeholders,

which is then transformed into a complete set of super-specific, validated "shall" statements.

Think "The thruster shall gimbal exactly 9 degrees," not just "control the ship."

Most importantly, they are constantly validating these requirements, asking "Is this

technically correct? Is it feasible? Is this still what you want?" It's an iterative

loop to ensure they're building the right system, not just an unwanted solution.