Review of the Space Communications Program of NASA's Space Operations Mission Directorate

The Space Communications Office (SCO) at NASA has two primary roles. The first is to manage two of the communications networks that enable spaceflight operations and research, and the second is to integrate agency-wide telecommunications issues. In 2005, NASA asked the NRC to review the effectiveness of the SCO in carrying out its responsibilities by assessing the overall quality of the space communications program. This report presents a review of each of the program elements within the SCO?the space network, NASA's integrated space network (NISN), spectrum management, standards management, search and rescue, communications and navigation architecture, technology, and operations integration. The review focuses on formulation of plans for each element, plan development methodology, connections with the broader community, and overall capabilities. Recommendations for improving SCO operations and organization are provided. Table of Contents Front Matter Executive Summary 1 Introduction Assessment of Operational Networks 2 Space Network Program Element Assessment 3 NASA Integrated Services Network Assessment of Other Program Elements 4 Spectrum Management 5 Data Standards Management 6 Search and Rescue 7 Communications and Navigation Architecture 8 Technology 9 Operations Integration Program Element General Issues 10 Overarching Issues and Recommendations Appendixes A Statement of Task B Committee Member Biographies C Acronyms