A data-communication and -processing network of compact, laptop-computer-based portable stations communicating via the World Wide Web (WWW) has been proposed as a relatively inexpensive end-to-end ground support system for future spacecraft missions. At present, end-to-end ground support functions (receiving, tracking, telemetry, command, monitoring, and control) are distributed among several subsystems in rack-mounted chassis (see figure). Many of these subsystems have outdated designs that entail high reproduction, maintenance, and operational (labor) costs. The costs are even higher than they might otherwise be because some functions are duplicated by two independent systems at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory: the Deep Space Communications Complex (DSCC) and the Advanced Multi-Mission Operation System (AMMOS). The AMMOS is an intermediate product of evolution toward the proposed system and is not an end-to-end system; in the AMMOS, some telemetric and interfacial functions are implemented in software on a laptop computer, at data rates that are too low for typical spacecraft missions.
In the proposed system, only the antenna subsystems, central command subsystems, receivers, transmitters, and data-storage or -buffering equipment would be retained at the DSCC. The other subsystems and the duplication between the DSCC and the AMMOS would be eliminated. Functions of tracking, ranging, command, monitoring and control, simulation and processing of telemetric data, central processing of data, and operation of the network would be performed by combinations of hardware and software in the portable stations.
To keep costs low, the portable stations would be made of commercial off-the-shelf products to the extent possible. To achieve the required data rates and promote modularity and interoperability, separate subsystem functions (e.g., telemetry, tracking, ranging, and command) would be implemented in hardware on separate circuit cards that conform to the Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) standard. The sizes of integrated circuits on the PCMCIA cards could be reduced by use of multichip-module (MCM) packaging techniques.
A portable station could be operated at any suitable location in the world; for example, at the DSCC, aboard a vessel, at a field site on land, or in a researcher's office or laboratory at a university. The system would enable a scientist to perform multiple tasks simultaneously from such a location. For example, a scientist could perform a sea-floor geodesy experiment by use of the Global Positioning System while tracking a spacecraft and processing telemetric data. Inasmuch as only one operator (the scientist or an assistant) would be able to manage all of these tasks, the cost of operating the system would be less than that of operating the present system, which depends on multiple operators. The innovations discussed here are formulated concepts, and have not been fully reduced to practice.
This work was done by Barbara Lam of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. NPO-20286
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Terrestrial portable spacecraft-mission-support stations
(reference NPO20286) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document focuses on the development of a cost-effective, end-to-end ground support system for Deep Space and High Earth Orbiter Missions, as conducted by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). It emphasizes the need for modernization in mission support, particularly in light of the limitations of existing Low Earth Orbiter systems, which are not addressed in this report.
The report is organized into several sections. Section 1 outlines the scope and objectives, highlighting the focus on evolutionary concepts that will be integrated into the proposed ground system. These concepts include advancements in technology, modular and scalable architecture, expert systems, standards, flexible hardware and software, and the Network Control Project (NCP) concept.
Section 2 discusses the evolutionary concepts in detail, emphasizing the importance of adapting to new technologies and methodologies to enhance mission support capabilities. The report suggests that the integration of these concepts will lead to a more efficient and effective ground support system.
Section 3 reviews the current subsystems used in telemetry, tracking, command, monitoring, and control. It aims to identify which components can be consolidated into a single card, thereby streamlining operations and reducing complexity. The interfaces to the subsystems under the Block-V Receiver (BVR) and Block-V Exciter are also examined, although this section can be skipped by readers already familiar with the Deep Space Network (DSN) subsystems.
The document proposes the use of augmented laptop computers to perform essential functions such as tracking, telemetry, command, monitoring, and control. This approach is intended to leverage modern computing capabilities to enhance the efficiency and portability of mission support operations.
Overall, the report presents a forward-looking vision for ground support systems in space missions, advocating for a shift towards more integrated, flexible, and technologically advanced solutions. By focusing on evolutionary improvements and the potential for modular design, the proposed system aims to meet the demands of future space exploration while optimizing costs and operational effectiveness. The insights provided in this document are crucial for stakeholders involved in the planning and execution of deep space missions, as they highlight the need for innovation in ground support infrastructure.
