The Deep Space Network Progress Report

Preface I This is the first issue of a new series of bimonthly progress reports describing work performed for the JPL/NASA Deep Space Network (DSN). Current work for the DSN was previously reported in Volume I1 of the now retired Space Programs Summary series of Laboratory bimonthly publications. The new report series is an uninterrupted follow-on to the Space Programs Summary, Volume 11. This report series presents progress on DSN supporting research and technology, advanced development and engineering, and implementation, and DSN operations which pertain to mission-independent or multiple-mission development as well as to support of fight projects. Each issue presents material in some, but not all, of the following categories in the order indicated. In each issue, the part entitled " Description of the DSN " describes the functions and facilities of the DSN and may report the current configuration of one of the six The work described in this report series is either performed or managed by the Tracking and Data Acquisition organization of JPL for NASA. The Deep Space Network (DSN), established by the NASA Office of Tracking and Data Acquisition under the system management and technical direction of JPL, is designed for two-way communications with unmanned spacecraft traveling approximately 16,000 km (10,000 mi) from earth to pIanetary distances. It supports, or has supported , the following NASA deep space exploration proj-The DSN is distinct from other NASA networks such as the MSFN, which has primary responsibility for tracking the manned spacecraft of the Apollo Project, and the Space Tracking and Data Acquisition Network (STADAN), which tracks earth-orbiting scientific and communications satellites. With no future unmanned lunar spacecraft presently planned, the primary objective of the DSN is to continue its support of planetary and interplanetary flight projects. To support flight projects, the DSN simultaneously performs advanced engineering on components and systems, integrates proven equipment and methods into the network ,l and provides direct support of each project through that project's Tracking and Data System. This management element and the project's Mission Operations personnel are responsible for the design and operation of the data, software, and operations systems required for the conduct of flight operations. The organization and procedures necessary to carry out these activities are described in Ref. 1. *When a new piece of equipment or new method has been accepted for integration into the network, it is classed as Goldstone duplicate standard (GSDS), thus standardizing the …