Architecture Study of Space-Based Satellite Networks for NASA Missions
William D. Ivancic · NASA Technical Reports Server (NASA) · 2003
Summary Traditional NASA missions, both near Earth and deep space, have been stovepipe in nature andpoint-to-point in architecture. Recently, NASA and others have conceptualized missions thatrequired space-based networking. The notion of networks in space is a drastic shift in thinking andrequires entirely new architectures, radio systems (antennas, modems, and media access), and possiblyeven new protocols.A full system engineering approach for some key mission architectures will occur that considersissues such as the science being performed, stationkeeping, antenna size, contact time, data rates,radio-link power requirements, media access techniques, and appropriate networking and transportprotocols. This report highlights preliminary architecture concepts and key technologies that will beinvestigated. Introduction Traditional NASA missions, both near Earth and deep space, have been stovepipe in nature andpoint-to-point in architecture. There was no notion or need to communicate directly with otherspacecraft. All communications (command, control, and data) went to a customized ground infra-structure either directly or via NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS). NASAand others have conceptualized and are beginning to plan missions that require space-based network-ing. The Earth Science Technology Office sensor web concept is a prime example. The notion ofnetworks in space is a drastic shift in thinking and requires entirely new architectures, radio systems(antennas, modems, and media access), and possibly even new protocols. Space-based networks, likethose envisioned for a sensor web, require far greater resources than NASA alone can provide. Anumber of cooperating entities including NASA, the Department of Defense (DOD), the EuropeanSpace Agency, the National Space Development Agency and others will provide these systems. Thus,common communication packages need to be developed that allow these space-based systems tointeroperate.NASA Glenn Research Center will be performing an architecture and system engineering study.This study will address space-based satellite networks primarily for NASA missions; however, dual-usecapabilities will be considered. This will allow common subsystems to be utilized by other satelliteusers such as other government agencies (U.S. or otherwise) and commercial entities. A full systemengineering approach for some key mission architectures will occur that considers issues such as thescience being performed, stationkeeping, antenna size, contact time, data rates, radio-link powerrequirements, media access techniques, as well as networking and appropriate transport protocols.These space-based network architecture designs will be developed to be evaluated in a preliminarydesign review with critical systems investigated further.This report highlights preliminary architecture concepts and key technologies that will beinvestigated.