Transfer of Files Between the Deep Impact Spacecrafts and the Ground Data System Using CFDP: a Case Study

The CCSDS File Delivery Protocol (CFDP) Standard could reshape ground support architectures by enabling applications to communicate over the space link using reliable-symmetric transport services. JPL utilized the CFDP standard to support the Deep Impact Mission. The architecture was based on layering the CFDP applications on top of the CCSDS Space Link Extension Services for data transport from the mission control centers to the ground stations. On July 4, 2005 at 1:52 A.M. EDT, the Deep Impact impactor successfully collided with Comet Tempel 1. During the final 48 hours prior to impact, over 300 files were uplinked to the spacecraft, while over 10 thousand files were downlinked from the spacecraft using the CFDP during the encounter timeframe. This paper uses the Deep Impact Mission as a case study in a discussion of the CFDP architecture, Deep Impact Mission requirements, and design for integrating the CFDP into the JPL deep space support services. Issues and recommendations for future missions using CFDP are also provided.