RANGE AND SPACE NETWORKING - WHAT’S MISSING

Abstract

A large selection of hardware and software components are readily available for supporting Internet communication in the ground network environment. These components can be used to construct very powerful and flexible communication systems. The Operating Missions as Nodes on the Internet (OMNI) project at NASA/GSFC has been defining and demonstrating ways to use standard Internet technologies for future space communication. Theses concepts and technologies are also applicable to test range telemetry applications. This paper identifies the network equipment and protocols to support end-to-end IP communication from range sensors and spacecraft instruments to end users. After identifying the end-to-end network hardware and software components, the paper discusses which ones are currently available and lists specific examples of each. This includes examples of space missions currently using Internet technology for end-to-end communication. It also lists missing pieces and includes information on their current status. The goal of this paper is also to stimulate thought and discussion on what steps need to be taken to start filling in the remaining missing pieces for end-to-end range and space network connectivity.