Title :
Mission concepts utilizing a Laser Communications and DTN-based GEO relay architecture
Author :
Israel, D.J. ; Edwards, B.L. ; Whiteman, D.E.
Author_Institution :
GSFC, Code 450, NASA, Greenbelt, MD, USA
Abstract :
Laser Communications and Delay Tolerant Networking (DTN) are two key technologies in development for enhancement of future generation space communications. Laser Communications or lasercom holds the potential for orders of magnitude increases in data rates while also reducing communications system size, weight, and power. DTN will allow for networked communications across space links maximizing network capacity and scalability. These two technologies combined on a geosynchronous Earth relay satellite will enable new and enhanced mission concepts. The Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) project, scheduled for launch in December 2017, will demonstrate these technologies and address the remaining challenges for the new architecture. This paper describes mission concepts that will be demonstrated as part of LCRD with an emphasis on how lasercom and DTN will enable and enhance future mission operations and data return.
Keywords :
delay tolerant networks; optical fibre communication; satellite communication; DTN; GEO relay architecture; LCRD project; delay tolerant networking; geosynchronous Earth relay satellite; laser communications relay demonstration; lasercom; mission concept; network capacity; network scalability; space communication; space links; Clouds; Laser beams; Lasers; Optical fiber communication; Protocols; Relays; Space vehicles;
Conference_Titel :
Aerospace Conference, 2013 IEEE
Conference_Location :
Big Sky, MT
Print_ISBN :
978-1-4673-1812-9
DOI :
10.1109/AERO.2013.6497328
