Space-based server network architecture

Abstract

A space-based server network architecture (1) which permits on demand transfer of mission and control data between client satellites (14) in an orbit about earth and an earth station (20, 22, 24, 26) irrespective of the location of the client satellite (14) relative to the earth station (20, 22, 24, 26). The architecture includes a plurality of server satellites (10) located spaced apart in a earth orbit above the orbit of the client satellites (14). The server satellites (10) provide substantially total world-wide communications coverage to and connectivity with designated and authorized earth stations (20, 22, 24, 26) and the plurality of client satellites (14). Each server satellite (10) includes: a communications downlink (18, 18a, 18b) for providing intercommunication with designated and authorized earth stations within its field of view; communications crosslinks (12, 12a, 12b) for providing intercommunications with other server satellites within its field of view; and communications links (16, 16a, 16b) for providing intercommunication with a client satellite within its field of view. Client satellite control data originating from an earth station is passed directly to an accessible server satellite, which then passes the control data either directly to the intended client satellite if within its communications field of view, or forwards the control data to a server satellite having direct communications access to the intended client satellite. Mission data from a client satellite can at any time be transmitted to a designated earth station, irrespective of its location on earth, by transmitting first to a server satellite within its communication field of view, where the mission data is then either downlinked directly to the designated earth station if within its communications field of view, or transmitting to a server satellite having communications downlink access to the designated earth station.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to a space-based network including a constellation of Geo-positioned earth orbit server satellites and low or medium earth orbit mission satellites and communications infrastructure that enables satellite control operations from space in a manner which prevents terrestrial-based attempts to jam, hack or otherwise interfere with satellite communications.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]In the last few years a new organization has been formed within the United States government known as Space Architects Office. The purpose of the Space Architects Office is to evaluate the escalating costs associated with operating U.S. satellites and to offer a plan to control costs as more satellites are planned to be launched in space.[0003]One study conducted and completed this year by this Space Architects Office concluded that approximately 806 million dollars per year are expended by satellite control operations such as the Air Force Sate...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is a space-based server network architecture that simplifies and consolidates existing satellite control operations and ensures survivability and non-vulnerability of government and commercial space assets. It includes a host server in space, a plurality of server satellites, and a network of client satellites. The server-client communications link is secure, survivable, and non-interceptable. The architecture also allows for seamless control operations and provides access to any terrestrial point on earth, at any time, and at any location within its orbit. It eliminates the need for multiple mission ground stations, reducing program and mission life cycle costs. The architecture also ensures a secure, jam-resistant client TT&C infrastructure and allows for communication between a terrestrial based station and a client satellite at anytime and at any place in the client satellite's orbit.

Problems solved by technology

None of the above-mentioned satellite control networks are compatible with one another.

There is also significant redundancy and overlap of satellite control operations between networks.

This drives excess mission costs for the ground control segments of the various different satellite networks, especially in view of the fact that each network is supported by multiple ground control sites.

In other words, each satellite control network is an independent stove pipe and this costs the U.S. tax payer a lot of money.

Present day satellite communications networks are susceptible to jamming, hackers, and interception by adversaries.

In the event of major regional conflict in the future, there is much concern that serious attempts will be made to deny U.S. space assets by adversaries.

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