Real-time data integration into aerospace documentation is a critical capability enabled by DITA, allowing for the incorporation of sensor data and other live information directly into documentation. In aerospace, where real-time data is crucial for monitoring, maintenance, and performance, DITA offers a structured approach for achieving this integration:

1. Data Reference within DITA Topics: DITA topics can reference real-time data sources, such as sensor feeds, telemetry, or live performance metrics. By embedding these references, aerospace documentation remains dynamic and responsive to changing conditions. It ensures that the documentation reflects the latest data, improving safety and maintenance practices.

<!-- Example: Referencing sensor data within a DITA topic -->
<topic id="engine-performance">
  <title>Engine Performance Metrics</title>
  <desc>Real-time engine performance metrics.</desc>
  <data-source href="https://sensor-feed.com/engine-metrics.xml" format="XML"/>
  <content>Engine performance metrics for the last hour: <data href="https://sensor-feed.com/engine-metrics.xml#rpm" format="number"/> RPM, <data href="https://sensor-feed.com/engine-metrics.xml#temperature" format="number"/> °C.</content>
</topic>

2. Automatic Data Updates: DITA can be configured to automatically update the referenced data within documentation, ensuring that readers have access to real-time information without manual intervention. This is especially valuable in aerospace scenarios where outdated data could lead to safety risks.

<!-- Example: Automatic data updates in DITA documentation -->
<data-source href="https://sensor-feed.com/engine-metrics.xml" format="XML" auto-update="true"/>

3. Data Visualization: DITA also supports the visualization of real-time data. Aerospace documents can include live charts, graphs, or diagrams that display sensor data trends or other relevant information, enhancing understanding and decision-making.

<!-- Example: Real-time data visualization in DITA -->
<figure>
  <title>Engine Temperature Trends</title>
  <desc>Real-time temperature trends of the aircraft engine.</desc>
  <image href="https://sensor-feed.com/engine-temperature-chart.png" format="PNG"/>
</figure>

By allowing the integration of real-time data, DITA empowers aerospace professionals with dynamic, data-driven documentation that aids in making informed decisions, enhancing safety, and optimizing aircraft performance.