Nanosatellites

21 II-1Ground Segment

Fernando Aguado Agelet and Alberto González Muíño

Signal Theory and Communications Department, University of Vigo, EE Telecomunicación, Spain

21.1 Introduction

The ground segment is a key element of any space system [1, 2]. It provides the essential link with satellites to perform operations or provide system services. In this chapter, an introduction to ground segment in nanosatellite systems is presented.

First of all, ground segment functionalities are identified, and a typical architecture is shown. Within this configuration, hardware and software elements of a ground segment are introduced to provide the reader with a complete view of its design for nanosatellite missions.

To conclude, new trends in the ground segment for nanosatellites, such as software-defined radio (SDR) solutions, are introduced.

21.2 Ground Segment Functionalities

The ground segment provides the communication link with the satellite or satellites to perform operations, receive housekeeping telemetry and scientific data, and send telecommands to execute platform and payload operations on board.

Figure 21.1 shows the main functionalities of the ground segment:

• Control and communicate with the space segment, this involves:
  • Generating the operation plans.
  • Controlling the spacecraft according to the operation plans.
  • Obtaining the requested data by the user.
• Communicate with the user segment, this involves:
  • Receiving the requests from the users.
  • Distributing the scientific data ...