NASA's next generation all-digital deep space network breadboard receiver

This work describes the breadboard advanced receiver (called ARX) that is currently being built for use in NASA's deep space network (DSN). This receiver has unique requirements in having to operate with very weak signals from deep space probes and provide high-quality telemetry and tracking data. The hybrid analog/digital receiver performs multiple functions, including carrier, subcarrier, and symbol synchronization. Tracking can be achieved for either residual, suppressed or hybrid carriers and for both sinusoidal and square wave subcarriers. System requirements are specified, and a functional description of the ARX is presented. The various digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms used are illustrated with block diagrams. Other functions, such as time tagged Doppler extraction and monitor/control, are also discussed, including acquisition algorithms and lock detection schemes.< >