An examination of the Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS) and its application to the Defense Data Network (DDN).

Abstract

This thesis examine's NASA's Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS) with emphasis on its potential applicability to the Defense Data Network (DDN). The ACTS program is a joint NASA industry program to develop the next generation of communications satellites, thus assuring the U.S.'s continued pre-eminence in this area. The ACTS will essentially operate as a "switchboard in the sky." The thrust of the thesis is to take a broad-brush look at the system and discuss its applicability to DoD's packet switching data network, the DDN. This thesis is written so that a technical background is not required by the reader. Applicable background information in provided where necessary. The emphasis is on the concepts involved and a discussion of the interoperability of the two systems.