Characterizing Space Communication Channel Behavior: An Analytical Approach with ESA Mission Data Validation

Space communication networks face unique challenges that distinguish them from terrestrial systems. As missions extend deeper into the Solar System Internet (SSI), effective Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms become critical for managing scarce communication resources and ensuring mission success. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of space communication channel characteristics through both analytical modeling and empirical validation using real mission data, thereby providing the necessary information to design a data-backed QoS framework for space. An analytical model is proposed, consisting of a three-state Markov chain that distinguishes between temporary signal degradation and extended outages due to space and atmospheric phenomena. The analysis of actual communication passes from ESA missions validates the theoretical predictions and identifies the contributors to communication failures. The empirical data also demonstrates the polarized nature of space communication performance, where passes either succeed with minimal losses or fail. These findings set the basis for the accurate channel and error modelling, which will allow for the future development of accurate and tailored QoS mechanisms that tackle the specific challenges of the communication environment.

Subjects

Bundle Protocol (BP)

Channel Modelling

Delay- and Disruption-Tolerant Networks (DTN)

Quality of Service (QoS)

Space Communications

DDC Class

600: Technology

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Characterizing Space Communication Channel Behavior: An Analytical Approach with ESA Mission Data Validation