Pre-launch lessons learned from NASA’S deep space network support for the artemis I mission to the moon

• Published in: Acta astronautica 2023-09, Vol.210, p.589-595
• Main Authors: Harmon, Kathleen, Arnold, Brad, Levesque, Michael, Johnston, Mark, Lichten, Stephen, Lock, Patricia, Berry, David, Asmar, Sami, Pham, Timothy
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Artemis; Deep space telecommunications; Human spaceflight
• ISSN: 0094-5765; 1879-2030
• DOI: 10.1016/j.actaastro.2023.05.016

NASA's Deep Space Network (DSN) serves as a critical element in the exploration of deep space, providing telecommunication services such as tracking, telemetry, command, and delivery of science data to its customers around the globe. In addition to supporting robotic spacecraft for scientific missions, the DSN also supports human spaceflight (HSF) endeavors, including NASA's flagship Artemis missions to the Moon. This paper describes DSN lessons learned during preparations for the first Artemis mission, Artemis I. Topics covered include DSN performance and reliability, network loading, interface management, international collaboration and the role of international partners. Lessons learned will be applied to future missions, including Artemis II and beyond. •NASA is managing projected growth in antenna demand and improving supportability to customers.•NASA is working on mission support enhancements to enable a sustained human presence on the Moon.•DSN antenna scheduling processes and downtime planning are designed to meet mission needs.•DSN support for human spaceflight necessitates years of coordination across many entities.•DSN coordination with international partners provides support for human spaceflight endeavors.