Influence of mission requirements and technology on NASA SCAN antenna asset architecture: Antenna-Sharing

Currently, NASA´s Space Communications and Navigation program (SCaN) is responsible for three networks: the Space Network (SN), the Near-Earth Network (NEN), and the Deep Space Network (DSN). Though this asset architecture is consistent with current mission requirements it is difficult to predict future trends. Certain trends in mission requirements and technology development could dramatically influence SCAN´s asset architecture. Several of these trends are identified, and qualitative assessments of their effects on architecture are discussed. A quantitative analysis of one architecture change is presented: cross-network asset sharing. Significant opportunities exist for sharing of NEN antennas, particularly in X-band. Results show that existing 11.3-m antennas could meet the requirements of 62 cruise operation segments (Op Segs) at separation distances out to the inner planets. With X-band enhancements, the 18-m antennas could meet requirements of 107 Op Segs. S-band opportunities exist, but the numbers are not significant due to the transition away from S-band by future missions. A few opportunities also exist in the K-bands as more missions transition toward higher frequencies. Issues with frequency compatibility, physical design, scheduling and cost could limit or preclude effective sharing.