Security-Enhanced Autonomous Network Management for Space Networking

Intelligent Automation Inc. (IAI) proposes an innovative Security-Enhanced Autonomous Network Management (SEANM) scheme for reliable communication in space networking. The SEANM scheme allows the system to adaptively reconfigure its network elements based upon awareness of network conditions, policies, and mission requirements. Existing network management tools in space networking are generally focused on specific missions and/or domains and hence do not provide an integrated and consistent solution for the future NASA space networks. Moreover, to reduce operation costs, autonomous network management is necessary. However, the related research and implementations are still at early stage and demands further investigation. In addition, due to the inherent characteristics of space networks, security aspects that are valid in the traditional networks are not fully suitable to space networks. A novel network management solution with advanced scalability and security is necessary for heterogeneous space networks. The objective of the proposed SEANM scheme is to develop an autonomous network management system so as to provide reliable and efficient support for the science and exploration mission in the future NASA space networks.

The proposed solution also has potential to greatly enhanced survivability for the war-fighters. Given the GIG vision, such heterogeneous and dynamic wireless networks will be common, and the developed network management solution can be applied to various military networks potentially supporting a number of major programs such as Warfighter Information Network-Tactical (WIN-T), Future Combat System (FCS), Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS), and Airborne Networks. The commercial drive for reliable communication is also increasing due to the increasing popularity of wireless network technologies. The potential commercial applications include satellite communications, wireless ad hoc networks and vehicle networks. The size of the market is quite large and may grow rapidly with the demand for network reliability and availability.

The proposed adaptive autonomous network management has potential to largely reduce the operation costs while maintain or even enhance the reliability for the NASA missions. Due to the heterogeneous nature of network assets and the lack of autonomy, the developed network management solution can be applied to the NASA's efforts on the integration of its current agency networks. The potential customers of our solution include robotic and human missions at locations ranging from the near Earth (e.g., EO-1) to deep space (e.g., Mars exploration).

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