A versatile computer program analyzes the link-design control table necessary for designing the telecommunication subsystem of a spacecraft in orbit around the Earth or on a deep-space mission. The program helps to calculate all the important parameter values for spacecraft-to-ground telemetry links and ground-to-spacecraft command links. The program also enables the design of turn-around ranging and one-way ranging links, which are very useful for determining the positions of spacecraft and for satisfying various other operational needs. The user can specify several aspects of spacecraft telecommunication- subsystem design, including the nature of the antenna (paraboloidal reflector, patch, dipole, etc.), the power-amplifier rating, and the link data rate.
The program enables the use of comparative design procedures and includes an extensive database on the capabilities, attributes, and costs of commercially available telecommunications equipment. Hence, the program can also perform cost analyses. The software includes an extensive ground-station database, so that link design can be carried out using different ground stations in a comparative process in an effort to select the best design. The output of the program is in the form of graphs as well as numbers.
This program was written by Faiza Lansing and Anil Kantak of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For more information, download the Technical Support Package (free white paper) at www.techbriefs.com/tsp under the Software category.
This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Karina Edmonds of the California Institute of Technology at (626) 395-2322. Refer to NPO-40442.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Program Analyzes Spacecraft/Ground Radio Links
(reference NPO-40442) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document is a Technical Support Package from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), specifically related to the analysis of spacecraft and ground radio links, identified by NPO-40442. It is part of NASA Tech Briefs, which aims to disseminate results from aerospace-related developments that have potential technological, scientific, or commercial applications.
The document emphasizes the importance of telecommunications subsystem design and cost analysis for preprojects, indicating a focus on optimizing communication systems for spacecraft. This is crucial for ensuring effective data transmission between spacecraft and ground stations, which is vital for mission success.
The Technical Support Package is provided under the Commercial Technology Program of NASA, which seeks to make aerospace innovations accessible for broader use beyond government applications. This initiative encourages collaboration and partnerships with private sectors and other organizations to leverage NASA's research and technology advancements.
For further inquiries or assistance, the document provides contact information for the Innovative Technology Assets Management at JPL, including a mailing address, telephone number, and email. This allows interested parties to seek additional information or support regarding the technologies discussed.
The document also includes a disclaimer stating that the U.S. Government and its representatives do not assume liability for the use of the information contained within, nor do they guarantee that such use will be free from privately owned rights. It clarifies that any trade names or manufacturers’ names mentioned are for identification purposes only and do not imply official endorsement by NASA.
Overall, this Technical Support Package serves as a resource for understanding the advancements in telecommunications systems for space missions, highlighting NASA's commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering innovation in aerospace technology.
