Description
The surge in lunar missions intensifies concerns about congestion and communication reliability. This study proposes a secure cislunar architecture for real-time, cross-mission information exchange. We focus on cryptographic protocols and network design for a native IPv6 cislunar transit system.
Through a review of internet and space communication advancements, we emphasize the need for a secure network, exemplified by LunaNet. A robust data transit system with encryption is crucial for a common communication infrastructure. Traditional protocols face latency challenges. We advocate for user-friendly encryption methods to address confidentiality within the CIA Triad. Integrity is maintained through cryptographic message authentication codes. Availability is ensured by minimizing latency, implementing redundancy, and enabling dynamic re-routing.
We propose a Cislunar Relay Architecture with Pitcher and Catcher constellations. Pitcher satellites manage uplink connections, while Catcher satellites manage downlink. This mesh network configuration ensures uninterrupted communication. Secure alternatives to VPN tunneling technologies, like Optical/Laser Inter-Satellite Links, are explored.
This paper analyzes cryptographic and protocol requirements for a secure cislunar communication architecture. The Cislunar Relay Architecture offers a dependable solution for future lunar missions, guaranteeing communication in the complex cislunar environment.
Keywords
CISLUNAR, MOON, CRYPTOGRAPHY, PROTOCOL, QUIC, TOR, ISLL, LUNANET, DTN/BP, IPv6
Disciplines
Digital Communications and Networking
Agreement
1
Recommended Citation
Hamblin, Michael and Abu Bakr, Bilal, "Secure Cislunar Communication Architecture: Cryptographic Capabilities and Protocols for Lunar Missions" (2024). Research Week. 5.
https://digitalcommons.collin.edu/researchweek/5
Comments
The burgeoning lunar economy demands a robust communication network. This project, initiated in collaboration with Dr. Bilal Abu Bakr in Spring of 2023, tackles the challenge of congestion and unreliable information exchange in cislunar space. We propose a secure architecture – a native IPv6 cislunar communication system – designed for real-time communication across diverse missions. By focusing on cryptographic protocols, network design, and innovative relay constellations, this project aims to guarantee seamless communication in the intricate and dynamic cislunar environment, paving the way for a secure and connected future on the moon.