Master clock and time distribution system for the NASA Deep Space Network

Abstract

NASA's Deep Space Network (DSN) consists of more than 20 antennas located at three globally spaced ground communications facilities. Local generation and distribution of precise time and frequency reference signals comprise an essential and central component of each complex. Within each complex synchronized timing references are required by approximately 100 users located at distances up to 30 kilometers from the central control center and station Master Clock. In this paper a highly modular, hot-swappable, and expandable system design for generation, delivery, and synchronization of highly precise and stable timing signals over fiber optic cables is described.