Reliable and efficient communication is vital to space exploration. New space communication technology and navigation system architectures are under development to improve current space networks. NASA’s Glenn Research Center plays a significant role in space communication through the development of new antenna technology, software defined radio (SDR), and the Next Generation Deep Space and Near-Earth Space networks. In support of navigation and communication, Glenn’s Space Communication Architecture Working Group (SCAWG) is defining future space communication architectures for all of NASA.

Deep Space Network

Software Defined Radio

Next Generation Near-Earth Satellite System

Lightweight, Deployable Antennas

Ferroelectric Reflectarray Antenna

Space Communication Architecture Working Group