Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Jordan, Michael A..
The Space Network's Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) 2 geostationary satellite constellation may be capable of providing lunar communication for the Space Exploration Initiative. The geometrical coverage constraints, link budgets, TDRS 2 delivery schedules, and life cycle costs for various Space Network architecture options.
The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) is an operational geostationary satellite system used by the NASA to communicate with low earth orbiting missions such as the NASA Space Transportation System and the Hubble Space Telescope. The Advanced TDRSS (ATDRSS) is a continuation to TDRSS and will develop new spacecraft to replenish and maintain the TDRSS space network into the second decade of the 21st century. This paper describes an approach which could permit the future ATDRSS space network to meet the future communications required for lunar missions as well as those projected for low earth missions in this time frame.
The space network can provide high data rate lunar communications as an alternative or adjunct to an expansion of the deep space network. Use of a space-based system can provide continuous coverage for lunar users and reduce terrestrial communication costs by delivering data directly to a single domestic location. Adapting the space network for lunar communications support would also maximize the use of the existing and planned space network and Space Station infrastructure. Several alternative architectures are evaluated.