An Analysis Of Grid Technologies For Support Of Space Based Operations
Sam Chism, Shirley Tseng · SpaceOps 2002 Conference · 2002
This paper describes an initial investigation into the potential applications of grid or distributed computing technologies for NASA ground systems. Examples of existing grids include the NASA IPG (Information Power Grid: http://www.ipg.nasa.gov/), the Griphyn (Grid Physic Network: http://www.griphyn.org/), and others listed in appendix 1 . A key benefit of implementing grid technologies would be lower operational costs resulting from more efficient and complete utilization of available resources. Examples include the capturing of unused computer resources to increase efficiency, the sharing of data resources, the ability to create virtual supercomputer centers at greatly reduced costs, and higher fault tolerance. The NASA ground architecture and its operational functions have been analyzed to identify potential benefits from the application of grid technologies. This paper concludes with a summary of the current status of grid technologies, forward plans, and the longterm outlook, with emphasis on their applicability to ground-based space operations at NASA.