Spaceborne Fiber-Optic Data Bus: A Small Satellite Perspective

Small-satellite system developers are poised to benefit from yet another technology that was developed with large satellites in mind: standards-based, broadband, on-board payload data networks. Large and small remote-sensing satellite payloads are continuing to advance to higher data rates thereby significantly increasing the demands on on-board networks. The networked satellite payloads include combinations of components commonly found on small satellites: sensors, processors, formatters, storage devices (recorders), broadband downlinks and payload controllers. An effective data-handling network for either type of satellite must support real-time data, must be fault tolerant and must be able to withstand the rigorous conditions of launch as well as the space environment. The Space-borne Fiber Optic Data Bus (SFODB) is the next generation in on-board data-handling networks. Designed specifically to support real-time broadband payload data with precise deterministic latency, it will do for high-speed payloads and small satellites what SAE 1553 has done for on-board command and telemetry systems. That is, SFODB will significantly reduce the cost and time of payload development, integration and testing through interface standardization. The SFODB network is also highly reliable, fault tolerant, and capable of withstanding the rigors of launch and space. SFODB achieves this operational and environmental performance while providing the small size, light weight, and low power necessary for small-satellite applications. SFODB utilizes fiber-optic components for subsystem interconnect, eliminating the need for cable-to-cable and box-to-box EMI mitigation. This paper will describe the SFODB architecture and its benefits for small satellites; the current set of flight transmitters, receivers and protocol ASICs that have been developed; the Development & Evaluation System; and planned component developments by DoD, NASA, and industry organizations