Forging DTN into existing operational networks

Abstract

The advent of Delay/Disruption Tolerant Networking (DTN) protocols, designed for environments with intermittent connectivity, has a potential to revolutionize communication in space exploration and beyond. Agencies like NASA and ESA have spearheaded efforts to implement DTN, recognizing its potential for missions to deep space, planetary surfaces, and other challenging environments. This paper explores shortly the evolution of DTN, its key characteristics, and its potential applications in future space missions. We then address the specific case of integrating DTN as a capability into the existing Human Exploration Ground Segment (HEGS) for ESA’s human exploration mission like Columbus/ISS, Gateway, and LUNA. The HEGS network connects all European sites as well as provide ESA’s interface to the international partners of human missions named above. The starting point for DTN usage within the HEGS will be the LUNA facility, allowing future expansion to the user centers across Europe as well as partners at JAXA and NASA. This makes it particularly suited as a base for the deployment of DTN-based communications with a wide range of applications and uses. This paper outlines the architectural design of the DTN integration within the IGS network, highlighting the key challenges encountered during implementation. These challenges include: • Interoperability: Ensuring seamless interoperation between DTN nodes and existing network protocols. • Performance: Maintaining acceptable performance levels while accommodating the inherent delays and disruptions of DTN. • Security: Integrating robust security measures to protect sensitive data transmitted over the DTN network. The paper presents the solutions adopted to overcome these challenges, including protocol adapters and DTN tunnel applications, network optimization and security aspects which have to be addressed in order to provide reliable and safe operations. The first approach to the actual operational concept for DTN based communication is being presented as well. The successful integration of DTN demonstrates the feasibility of incorporating this powerful technology into existing operational networks. This approach not only enhances the resilience and reliability of ground communication but also paves the way for future innovations in space communication architectures.