Implementation of CCSDS protocols for space networks.

The advent of the space age has created a growing need for robust communication infrastructures capable of operating reliably in the harsh conditions of interplanetary space. Since the early 2000s, significant research has focused on developing software infrastructures and network architectures suited for such environments. This effort led to the development of the Delay-/Disruption-Tolerant Networking (DTN) architecture, centered around the Bundle Protocol (BP). Within this context, strong standardization is essential. Therefore, numerous space agencies collaborate through the Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems (CCSDS), an international body that develops standards to ensure interoperability and cross-support among space agencies and commercial entities. This thesis presents the design, development, and integration of several DTN networking standard components within the European Space Agency’s (ESA) implementation of the Bundle Protocol, known as ESA BP version 3 (ESA BPv3), in Java. This work was carried out during a six-month internship at ESA’s European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) in Darmstadt, Germany. The primary objective was to extend ESA BPv3 with new functionalities and new supporting libraries to enhance its flexibility, modularity, and compliance with CCSDS and IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force) standards for space communication. Four key contributions were developed: the File Convergence Layer Element (CLE), the CCSDS Generic Packetiser (GP), the DTN Anycast (“iac”) scheme, and the CADU and CLTU CLEs. The new software significantly enhances ESA BPv3’s capability to integrate both terrestrial and space communication protocols within a unified DTN framework. This work aims to upgrade the support of DTN architectures for space communication, foster interoperability among agencies such as ESA and NASA, and pave the way for more resilient, adaptable interplanetary networking systems.