Evolution of the communications systems and technology for Mars exploration

Abstract

This paper will provide an overview of the evolution of the of the telecommunication systems used for Mars exploration by discussing the past, present and potential future systems. The required technology and limiting factors will be discussed. The goal of NASA's Mars Exploration Project is to support seamless flow of information from Mars to Earth (MTE) from Science Orbiters, Telecommunication Orbiters, and Surface Landers. The anticipated Surface Landers will include a diverse set of in situ spacecraft, ranging from large, highly mobile rovers with considerable landed mass and power, to small, extremely energy constrained “scout-class” missions with little or no direct-to-Earth telecommunications link capability. The paper discusses the status of current telecommunication links using X- and Ka-band for MTE and UHF for proximity links (surface-to-orbiter). The paper also mentions potential future generation communication links such as optical communications. The development of the Mars telecommunications infrastructure is part of NASA's plan to establish a presence in Mars and eventually throughout the solar system. Our presence in Mars over the next two decades will largely be a function of our Mars missions and the evolution of our deep space communications capabilities.