Overview on In-Space Internet Node Testbed (ISINT)

The Satellite Networks and Architecture Branch has developed the In-Space Internet Node Technology testbed (ISINT) for investigating the use of commercial Internet products for NASA missions. The testbed connects two closed subnets over a tabletop Ka-band transponder by using commercial routers and modems. Since many NASA assets are in low Earth orbits (LEO's), the testbed simulates the varying signal strength, changing propagation delay, and varying connection times that are normally experienced when communicating to the Earth via a geosynchronous orbiting (GEO) communications satellite. Research results from using this testbed will be used to determine which Internet technologies are appropriate for NASA's future communication needs.