The generalized information network analysis methodology for distributed satellite systems

Abstract

A systematic analysis methodology for distributed satellite systems is developed that is generalizable and can be applied to any satellite mission in communications, sensing or nav­igation. The primary enabler is that almost all satellite applications involve; the collection and dissemination of information and can thus be treated as modular information process­ing networks. This generalization allows the adoption of the mathematics for information network flow, leading to a logical classification scheme for satellite systems. The benefits and issues that are characteristic of each system class are identified, in terms of their capa­bility, performance and cost. The quantitative analysis methodology specifies measurable, unambiguous metrics for the cost, capability, performance and adaptability. The Capabili­ties are characterized by four quality of service parameters that relate to the isolation, rate, integrity and availability of the information transferred between origin-destination pairs within a market. Performance is the probability of satisfying the user's requirements for these parameters. The Cost per Function metric is the average cost incurred to provide satisfactory service to a single user, and Adapatability metrics are sensitivity indicators. Validation of the methodology is provided by a comprehensive quantitative analysis of the NAVSTAR Global Positioning System, in which the calculated capabilities agree with mea­sured data to within 3%. The utility of the methodology for comparative analysis is high­lighted in a rigorous competitive assessment of three proposed broadband communication satellite systems. Finally, detailed architectural trades for a distributed space based radar are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the the methodology for conceptual design. The generalized information network analysis methodology is thus identified· as a valuable tool for space systems engineering, allowing qualitative and quantitative assessment of the impacts of system architecture, deployment strategy, schedule slip, market demographics and technical risk.