Complex Systems and Systems of Systems Engineering

Chapter 9

Conclusion to the “Antarctica Life Support Facility” Case Study ¹

“Just because nobody complains doesn’t mean all parachutes are perfect.”

Benny HILL

The Antarctica mission was a success for the OTL laboratory. The Antarctica Life Support Facility, an indispensable support for this mission, kept its promises and responded well to the expectations of all stakeholders. The mission went without any major glitches, and cooperation between the scientific teams, the acquirers and suppliers was carried out efficiently in a climate of reciprocal trust.

To mark the occasion and celebrate this success, Yves decides to bring together the different teams for a social event. Yves is particularly fond of Sylvanès Abbey, where he was a participant at a conference the previous year, and he wishes to share his enthusiasm for the location. Thankfully, a slot is available and Yves issues invitations to all of the actors involved in this adventure.

All those involved in the Antarctica project therefore find themselves in a magnificent Cistercian abbey, known for its sacred music, one fine day in September. The abbey has recently acquired a new organ¹, and Yves, an amateur organist, cannot resist the temptation. He convinces the abbey staff to let him play the magnificent instrument for a short while for the benefit of the whole team. To everyone’s delight, Yves is granted permission to play for half an hour. First, as it is still the summer and the team is in a festive mood, he plays the ...