The system view
Abstract
Analysis of spacecraft to ground communications link performance and a description of the Deep Space Network system is provided. Due to the tremendous distances involved in communicating between the spacecraft at the edge of our solar system and Earth, communications link performance is stretched to the limit of theoretical predictions. This is required in order to return the maximum amount of data possible during critical events such as planetary flybys. The link analysis provides a basis for the initial link design before spacecraft launch and performance prediction and monitoring during spacecraft flight. Additionally, it indicates what performance upgrades are required for mission extensions and new missions. Performance is improved through the use of a larger antenna collecting area, greater transmitter power, lower receiving system noise temperature and more sophisticated data coding schemes. The performance of the Deep Space Station configuration which serves as the ground portion of the communications link is assessed.
- Publication:
-
The Deep Space Network: A Radio Commun. Instr. for Deep Space Exploration
- Pub Date:
- July 1983
- Bibcode:
- 1983dsnr.nasa.....N
- Keywords:
-
- Deep Space Network;
- Mission Planning;
- Spacecraft Communication;
- Transmission Efficiency;
- Carrier To Noise Ratios;
- Command And Control;
- Downlinking;
- Performance Prediction;
- Phase Shift Keying;
- Uplinking;
- Communications and Radar