As NASA's lead center for commercial communications satellite technology, Glenn is
working to ensure the interoperability of satellite networks with terrestrial networks. Satellite
characteristics relevant to networking can pose problems when dealing with systems designed with
only terrestrial network characteristics in mind. Our network technology program aims to enable the
cost-effective and efficient use of communication satellites as part of an overall information
infrastructure.
A recently formed Satellite Industry Task Force (SITF), under the leadership of Dr. Thomas Brackey of Hughes Space & Communications Co.,
has been attacking the problems facing satellite communications, including
spectrum management and satellite/terrestrial network interoperability. Glenn supports
industry efforts including the Communications and Interoperability Subcommittee headed by Dr.
Prakash Chitre of COMSAT. A Satellite Division has recently been formed under the
Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) which includes much of this effort. Several issues have
been identified to address interoperability, in particular ATM and
data protocols.
