This proposes phase I of a two-phase analysis effort, whose overall objective is to investigate options and techniques for survivable adaptive network for a distributed array of spacecraft (DAS) system, for follow-on development. Phase I will identify promising approaches, conduct limited assessments, and identify issues for more detailed investigation in phase II. A DAS system consists of small, inexpensive satellites ("mini-spacecraft") that work in unison to provide the capability of a survivable mission function. Potential DAS system mission applications include communications and sensing. A survivable adaptive network (San) is essential for a DAS system to be implemented, in order that DAS mini-spacecraft can work together, with any one mini-spacecraft having the capability to be a master. In addition, it is essential that they maintain time synchronism such that high data rate traffic can be accommodated. Link performance in stressed environments, interconnectivity of links, and multimedia transmission are essential ingredients of a San.
