Overview
ISO 20206:2015 - Space data and information transfer systems - IP over CCSDS space links specifies the recommended method for transferring Internet Protocol (IP) Protocol Data Units (PDUs) over CCSDS (Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems) space links. Adopted from CCSDS 702.1-B-1, this Recommended Standard (also known as IPoC) provides a prescriptive profile for implementing IP over CCSDS Space Data Link Protocols in spacecraft and ground systems. It defines the service and protocol behaviors needed to carry IPv4/IPv6 and related IP PDUs across space links (uplink, downlink, and spacecraft-to-spacecraft).
Key topics and technical requirements
- Service definition and primitives: Defines IPOC service primitives, parameters and the assumed services from the underlying CCSDS subnetwork.
- Protocol data unit (PDU) format: Specifies the IPE header format and placement used to encapsulate IP PDUs for transfer over CCSDS links.
- Encapsulation and transfer services: Describes how the IPE works with the CCSDS Encapsulation Service to deliver IP PDUs across Virtual Channel Packets (VCPs) and other CCSDS transfer services.
- Procedure requirements: Normative procedures for sending and receiving ends, including handling, delimitation, and bit/word conventions (e.g., bit numbering and MSB-first transmission).
- Interoperability and profile: A prescriptive profile intended to ensure interoperability among CCSDS member agencies and vendors implementing IP over space links.
- Informative guidance: Annexes covering security and patent considerations, network views, end-to-end functional context diagrams, references and acronyms.
Practical applications - who uses this standard
ISO 20206:2015 is directly relevant to:
- Spacecraft systems engineers implementing onboard communications and payload data handling that must carry IP traffic.
- Ground segment architects and mission operations teams integrating IP-based services with CCSDS ground links.
- Space communications vendors developing modems, protocol stacks, routers and encapsulation services for space applications.
- Standards bodies and integrators aligning mission profiles, interoperability agreements, and memoranda of agreement between agencies.
Practical use cases include telemetry/telecommand relay of IP-based services, spacecraft-to-ground data delivery of IP PDUs, and integration of terrestrial IP networks with space links.
Related standards and references
- CCSDS Recommended Standard: CCSDS 702.1-B-1 (IP over CCSDS space links) - basis for ISO 20206:2015.
- OSI Basic Reference Model and service definition conventions (referenced for terminology and service primitives).
- ISO/TC 20/SC 13 (Space data and information transfer systems) - technical committee responsible for adoption.
Keywords: ISO 20206:2015, IP over CCSDS, IPoC, space links, CCSDS, IP PDUs, spacecraft communications, space data link.
