Architecture modeling and performance characterization of Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) network using MACHETE

Abstract- As future space exploration missions will involve larger number of spacecraft and more complex systems, theoretical analysis alone may have limitations on characterizing system performance and interactions among the systems. Simulation tools can be useful for system performance characterization through detailed modeling and simulation of the systems and its environment. To simulate Space-based networks, we have developed the Multi-mission Advanced Communications Hybrid Environment for Test and Evaluation (MACHETE) tool which captures the unique characteristics of space networking for performance assessment and end-to-end test evaluation. This tool contains orbital and planetary motion kinematics models, link engineering models, traffic load generation models and communication protocol models.