Modeling the deep space network costs for future space missions by using major cost drivers

Abstract

This paper develops a cost model to do long range planning cost estimates for Deep Space Network (DSN) support of future space missions. The model is a function of eight major mission cost drivers such as uplink frequency upgrade (U/L), telemetry upgrade (TEL) and antenna gain/noise temperature (G/T) upgrade. This paper focuses on the costs required to modify and/or enhance the DSN to prepare for supporting future space missions. Two models are derived from actual cost data from three space missions: Voyager (Uranus), Voyager (Neptune), and Magellan. Model A allows you to estimate the total cost, and Model B allows you to estimate the time profile cost and total cost for DSN support of a similar future space mission. The models were back tested against the total cost and the time profile cost for DSN support of three projects, Voyager (U), Voyager (N) and Magellan, and gave cost estimates which range from 17% below to 19% above actual costs for Model A, and 22.5% below to 17.5% above for Model B. The total cost Model A was also applied to estimate the total costs for DSN support of two other independent projects: Mariner Jupiter/Satum (MJS - later became Voyager), and Viking. This model gave total cost estimates for DSN support which range from 15% to 4% above actual total costs for MJS and Viking, respectively.