Vanderdonckt, JeanMibenge, HeriHeriMibenge2025-05-142025-05-142025-05-142024https://hdl.handle.net/2078.2/38163This thesis presents a systematic literature review that examines essential software design principles for Mars missions, with a focus on modularity, fault tolerance, communication protocols, security measures, and the integration of artificial intelligence. A meticulous selection of 32 studies reveals the crucial role these principles play in ensuring the scalability, maintainability, and reliability of software systems in challenging space exploration environments. The research emphasizes the potential of machine learning and predictive analytics to enhance mission efficiency and safety, fostering increased autonomy in space operations. Moreover, this study discusses critical limitations, including selection and reporting biases, time and access constraints, and a concentration on certain mission phases, which may influence the generalizability of the findings. Despite the exhaustive approach, the limited sample size and the student’s singular perspective highlight the need for a cautious interpretation of the results. The thesis advocates for continuous innovation and adaptation in software design to meet the evolving demands of Mars exploration, laying the groundwork for future research to expand upon these findings with broader methodologies and access to diverse resources.MarsSoftwareSpacetext::thesis::master thesisthesis:45724