
In this area, the objective is to develop accurate modeling and simulation techniques and tool kits
to facilitate the development of interoperable broadband satellite communication networks for
NASA and NII/GII applications.
With the emergence of next-generation, low earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, unique
technical challenges arise which need to be resolved. We plan to identify the optimal range
of system parameters and the performance bottlenecks for present satellite systems. We will
also perform throughput analysis of accepted protocols over emerging broadband satellite networks
for NASA mission applications to determine system parameters for enhanced performance of future systems.

Sample OPNET satellite simulation.
To accomplish our task, we are using a commercial software package from Mil 3, Inc. called
OPNET, which is a comprehensive software environment for modeling, simulating, and analyzing
the performance of communications networks, computer systems and applications, and distributed
systems.

Thomas M. Wallett
Thomas.M.Wallett@grc.nasa.gov
Telephone: (216) 433-3673