The sensors on a spacecraft, the spacecraft data handling system, the mission support ground data system, the experimenter’s scientific data reduction and analysis system, the post-mission data storage and dissemination system all comprise elements of the data handling system for a space-based astronomy.

Primary treatement is given to the experimenter’s scientific data system where the following aspects of astronomy missions are discussed: increasingly close operational contact of the experimenters with the sensors calls for moving data processing operations to the earliest possible point of the system. On the other hand, potential need for subsequent reprocessing of data would favor the central ground-based facility for initial processing with the open-end system philosophy.

One approach, extant and planned implementation of the scientific data analysis system for the zodiacal light experiment of the solar probe Helios, is presented in detail, taking into consideration experience from the various astronomy missions, in particular Pioneer and Skylab.