Achieving flexible waveform and data routing with the Programmable Space IP Modem

Providing flexible satellite communications through frequency- and waveform-agile onboard processing is an emerging trend for missions such as the Air Force's Operationally Responsive Space (ORS). Data packet routing features that seek to improve network flexibility and performance by going beyond traditional ldquobent piperdquo platforms are being leveraged to meet the objectives of ORS. The Programmable Space Internet Protocol Modem (PSIM) is an integral part of a flexible satellite communications mission set to launch mid 2009. The PSIM provides data processing for interfacing to existing ground terminal waveforms and recovers the datagrams for onboard routing. All components interface with the PSIM via standard Layer-2 Gigabit Ethernet and a modified Layer-1 physical interface that is radiation-tolerant for the mission's 10-year geosynchronous orbit. This paper provides a description of the PSIM system design and highlights the system's performance and flexibility.