DSNS: The Deep Space Network Simulator

TL;DR

The paper introduces DSNS, a scalable and flexible simulator designed for large-scale satellite networks, enabling faster protocol development and testing for interplanetary internet applications.

Contribution

It presents a new satellite network simulator that surpasses existing tools in scalability, fidelity, and extensibility, tailored for interplanetary internet research.

Findings

DSNS outperforms existing simulators in scalability and fidelity.

It supports implementation of CCSDS protocols and DTN scenarios.

The tool accelerates protocol development and testing for satellite networks.

Abstract

Simulation tools are commonly used in the development and testing of new protocols or new networks. However, as satellite networks start to grow to encompass thousands of nodes, and as companies and space agencies begin to realize the interplanetary internet, existing satellite and network simulation tools have become impractical for use in this context. We therefore present the Deep Space Network Simulator (DSNS): a new network simulator with a focus on large-scale satellite networks. We demonstrate its improved capabilities compared to existing offerings, showcase its flexibility and extensibility through an implementation of existing protocols and the DTN simulation reference scenarios recommended by CCSDS, and evaluate its scalability, showing that it exceeds existing tools while providing better fidelity. DSNS provides concrete usefulness to both standards bodies and satellite operators, enabling fast iteration on protocol development and testing of parameters under highly realistic conditions. By removing roadblocks to research and innovation, we can accelerate the development of upcoming satellite networks and ensure that their communication is both fast and secure.