Session
Technical Session II: Mission Operations
Abstract
Spacecraft to be used in future missions supported by the Deep Space Network (DSN) will be much smaller than in previous missions, resulting generally in lower radiated power. These missions are expected to be launched more frequently than previous missions and to require an ever increasing number of tracking hours, while the funds available to track these future missions are declining. This paper briefly describes the DSN. It then characterizes performance limits of smaller spacecraft and the tracking challenges these limits present. It reviews new techniques and technologies the DSN is developing to meet these challenges. Finally, it recommends guidelines for future missions to follow to most effectively utilize DSN resources.
Deep Space Network Support of Small Missions
Spacecraft to be used in future missions supported by the Deep Space Network (DSN) will be much smaller than in previous missions, resulting generally in lower radiated power. These missions are expected to be launched more frequently than previous missions and to require an ever increasing number of tracking hours, while the funds available to track these future missions are declining. This paper briefly describes the DSN. It then characterizes performance limits of smaller spacecraft and the tracking challenges these limits present. It reviews new techniques and technologies the DSN is developing to meet these challenges. Finally, it recommends guidelines for future missions to follow to most effectively utilize DSN resources.
