Architectures for a space-based information network with shared on-orbit processing

This dissertation provides a top level assessment of technology design choices for the architecture of a space-based information network with shared on-orbit processing. Networking is an efficient method of sharing communications and lowering the cost of communications, providing better interoperability and data integration for multiple satellites. The current space communications architecture sets a critical limitation on the collection of raw data sent to the ground. By introducing powerful space-borne processing, compression of raw data can alleviate the need for expensive and expansive downlinks. Moreover, distribution of processed data directly from space sensors to the end-users may be more easily realized. A space-based information network backbone can act as the transport network for mission satellites as well as enable the concept of decoupled, shared, and perhaps distributed space-borne processing for space-based assets. Optical crosslinks are the enabling technology for creating a cost-effective network capable of supporting high data rates. In this dissertation, the space-based network backbone is designed to meet a number of mission requirements by optimizing over constellation topologies under different traffic models. With high network capacity availability, space-borne processing can be accessible by any mission satellite attached to the network. Space-borne processing capabilities can be enhanced with commercial processors that are tolerant of radiation and replenished periodically (as frequently as every two years).

Department dc:contributor.department

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Engineering Systems Division.

Grantor dc:publisher

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2005

Author dc:creator

• Chan, Serena, 1977-

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Vincent W.S. Chan.

• Engineering Systems Division.

Statement dc:rights

• M.I.T. theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. See provided URL for inquiries about permission.

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://dspace.mit.edu/handle/1721.1/7582

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/30353

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dspace.mit.edu:1721.1/30353