Applications
- 15.2.1 DSN-Class Ground Networks — Large-aperture ground antenna networks capable of closing high-rate telemetry and command links with spacecraft at lunar, interplanetary and deep-space distances.
- 15.2.2 Optical Deep-Space Links — Using laser communication terminals on deep-space probes and relay nodes to deliver 10–100× the data rates of conventional RF links at a fraction of the mass and power.
- 15.2.3 Disruption-Tolerant Networking — Deploying store-carry-forward relay nodes that bridge the multi-minute to multi-hour signal gaps inherent in deep-space and cislunar communications links.
- 15.2.4 Cislunar Relay Networks — A sovereign constellation of relay satellites positioned across cislunar space to provide continuous, low-latency communications links between Earth, lunar orbit, and surface assets.
- 15.2.5 Mars Communications Relays — Dedicated relay orbiters at Mars providing continuous, high-throughput radio and optical communications between surface assets and Earth ground stations.