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Performance Analysis of Operational Ka-band Link with Kepler

Authors:
Timothy Pham
Jason Liao

Keywords: DSN, performance analysis, weather statistics, Kepler, Ka-band operations

Abstract:
This paper presents some observations on the signal behavior from an analysis of Kepler Ka-band link. The goal is to characterize the link performance with operational data obtained from the Deep Space Network (DSN) tracking of Kepler spacecraft. Kepler is the first mission supported by the DSN that uses Ka-band as a primary means to return science data. We examine how operational data may differ from the expectation. Operational data often show many surprises where data variations occur without an apparent cause. We try to quantify the signal power fluctuation so that future missions can adequately plan for the link design, especially for missions that operate with lower margin. We also attempt to quantify the effect of rains/heavy clouds and high winds.

Pages: 30 to 35

Copyright: Copyright (c) The Government of USA, 2016. Used by permission to IARIA.

Publication date: February 21, 2016

Published in: conference

ISSN: 2308-4480

ISBN: 978-1-61208-453-4

Location: Lisbon, Portugal

Dates: from February 21, 2016 to February 25, 2016