Data Distribution Satellite

The Data Distribution Satellite (DDS) is described in terms of its role in providing space-data and communication services for the National Research and Education Network. The DDS is envisioned as a processing link in the microwave network that would connect academic, industrial, and government institutions to a high-data-rate service of space data. The general need for science communications is assessed, and it is shown that the data potential exceeds the available spectrum. The DDS could act as a bridge between terrestrial facilities the space network, and other space platforms to provide efficient access to space science data. Government demand for this type of data is high suggesting that the DDS could make use of hopping beams to provide more data at reduced costs.