The Deep Space Network (DSN) is a critical component of NASA's space exploration infrastructure, providing essential communication links between Earth and interplanetary spacecraft. In May 2013, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) awarded a significant subcontract to ITT Exelis, a leading aerospace and defense company, to operate and maintain the DSN facilities. This partnership aimed to enhance the capabilities and reliability of the DSN, ensuring continuous support for NASA's ambitious space missions.

Overview of the Deep Space Network

The Deep Space Network is an international array of large radio antennas and communication facilities that support interplanetary spacecraft missions, as well as radio and radar astronomy observations for the exploration of the solar system and the universe. Managed by JPL, the DSN comprises three primary complexes located in Goldstone, California; Madrid, Spain; and Canberra, Australia. These facilities work in unison to provide continuous, round-the-clock communication coverage for NASA's spacecraft operating in deep space.

ITT Exelis' Role in the DSN

ITT Exelis, headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, was selected by JPL to provide comprehensive maintenance, operations, and engineering services for the DSN. The subcontract, announced in May 2013, had a base period of five years, with incentive provisions that could extend it up to 10 years, bringing the total potential value to $435 million. Under this agreement, Exelis was responsible for:

  • Operating and maintaining the DSN complex in Goldstone, California.
  • Managing the Deep Space Operations Center at JPL.
  • Overseeing a facility in Monrovia, California, which coordinates among the three DSN complexes worldwide.

This collaboration aimed to ensure the DSN's readiness and reliability, supporting a wide array of NASA missions, including those involving the Voyager spacecraft, Mars Exploration Rovers, Curiosity, and the Cassini Saturn mission. Exelis' extensive experience in space communications and network operations made it a suitable partner for this critical role.

Significance of the Contract

The selection of ITT Exelis for this subcontract was a strategic move by JPL to leverage the company's expertise in managing complex communication networks. The DSN is vital for the success of NASA's deep space missions, providing essential services such as:

  • Sending commands to spacecraft to perform scientific experiments and maneuvers.
  • Receiving data from spacecraft, including scientific measurements and images.
  • Conducting radio and radar astronomy observations to study celestial bodies.

By entrusting Exelis with the operations and maintenance of the DSN, JPL aimed to enhance the network's efficiency and effectiveness, ensuring uninterrupted support for NASA's exploration endeavors.

Exelis' Contribution to NASA's Missions

Exelis' involvement in the DSN subcontract was part of a broader commitment to supporting NASA's space exploration missions. The company's role included:

  • Providing operations and maintenance for 10 large antennas.
  • Managing test, logistics, and maintenance repair facilities.
  • Overseeing multiple network and communication systems.
  • Operating several communications centers.
  • Supporting public relations outreach programs.

Additionally, Exelis was tasked with supporting the Goldstone Deep Space Communications Complex's site security, including automated security systems, a major power generation plant, and environmental protection programs. The company's engineering responsibilities encompassed software, network, and facility engineering, as well as modifying, testing, and evaluating existing DSN systems to meet the unique requirements of various interplanetary missions.

Impact on NASA's Space Communications

The partnership between JPL and ITT Exelis had a significant impact on NASA's space communications capabilities. By ensuring the DSN's operational excellence, the collaboration facilitated:

  • Continuous communication with spacecraft exploring distant planets, moons, and other celestial bodies.
  • Timely transmission of scientific data back to Earth, enabling researchers to analyze and interpret findings promptly.
  • Effective command and control of spacecraft, allowing for real-time adjustments to mission parameters and objectives.

This support was crucial for the success of numerous missions, including the Mars rovers' exploration of the Martian surface, the Voyager spacecraft's journey through the outer reaches of the solar system, and the Cassini mission's study of Saturn and its moons.

Conclusion

The selection of ITT Exelis by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory to operate and maintain NASA's Deep Space Network marked a pivotal moment in enhancing the capabilities of space communications. Through this partnership, Exelis contributed to the seamless operation of the DSN, ensuring that NASA's spacecraft remained connected and operational throughout their missions. This collaboration underscored the importance of reliable communication infrastructure in advancing our understanding of the cosmos and achieving the objectives of space exploration.

Sources

  • NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory — JPL Selects NASA Deep Space Network Subcontractor —
  • ITT Exelis — ITT Exelis selected for NASA Deep Space Network subcontract by Jet Propulsion Laboratory —
  • Washington Technology — Exelis wins $435M contract to support NASA's Deep Space Network —
  • NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory — NASA Awards Deep Space Network Operations Contract —
  • Metis Technology Solutions — Metis Expands to NASA JPL as DSN Subcontractor —