Optical Network Devices and Protocols for Space

The next generation architecture must become more protocol independent and bit rate independent. Numerous sensors and other sources will contribute to the traffic on a laser communications backbone platform. They will vary in rate (kilobits/s togigabits/s) and in protocol.We will assess, then propose to construct a 160 Gb/s spaced based data switch for the backbone which will have unprecedented advantages in versatility, size and power.In addition we will assess, then propose to construct the modules which will interface, in native format, with an on board fiber optic bus, and a sample payload such as GBS. These modules will allow traffic from legacy payloads to enter the lasercombackbone.The proposed network will seemlessly integrate with the public switched telecommunications network (PSTN) managed by the commercial telecommunications service providers. The envisioned backbone topology, protocol, and onboard processor will allow growthof the space based backbone to 160 Gb/s and beyond with an order of magnitude reduction in size and power compared to present techniques. This will enable the cost effective deployment of a laser comm backbone for both DOD and commercial applications.