A Toolkit for Cross-Support Transfer Services

Abstract

In 1992 CCSDS embarked on the definition of Space- Link Extension services for cross-support between ground assets operated by different space agencies. INTEGAL, the ESA spacecraft for gamma-ray observation, launched in 2002, was the first mission to benefit for routine operations from the implementation ofthose services. Using the RAF, RCF and F-CLTU SLE services, the ESA INTEGRAL Control Centre accesses the NASA-DSN ground stations for retrieving telemetry and sending telecommands. Following the successful operational exploitation ofthe set of CCSDS services used between ESA and NASA, other Agencies started using those services for cross-support