ISO 20207:2015

Overview - ISO 20207:2015 (CCSDS over DVB-S2)

ISO 20207:2015 specifies a Recommended Standard (adaptation profile) for using the ETSI DVB‑S2 telecom standard to carry CCSDS space telemetry Transfer Frames. Prepared by CCSDS (CCSDS 131.3‑B‑1) and adopted by ISO, the document defines how to map CCSDS Transfer Frames into DVB‑S2 transport units using the Attached Synchronization Marker (ASM) and Channel Access Data Unit (CADU) interface. It targets high‑data‑rate telemetry (e.g., EESS payloads) and cross‑Agency space link interoperability.

Key topics and technical requirements

• DVB‑S2 modulation & coding: Supports QPSK, 8PSK, 16APSK, 32APSK and coding rates from 1/4 to 9/10 using near‑Shannon LDPC codes for high spectral efficiency.
• Adaptive modes: Defines use of Variable Coding and Modulation (VCM) for scheduled adaptation and Adaptive Coding and Modulation (ACM) where feedback/telecommand links allow dynamic adaptation.
• CADU/ASM interface: Specifies generation of CADU streams and use of the ASM marker to align CCSDS frames with DVB‑S2 framing.
• DVB‑S2 transmission details: Covers waveform adaptation, average signal energy, shaping/filtering and managed parameters for reliable space link operation.
• Managed parameters and options: Lists permanent and variable managed parameters for transfer frame synchronization and DVB‑S2 operation; options require bilateral agreements for cross‑support.
• Reuse of telecom hardware/IP: Encourages leveraging existing DVB‑S2 receivers, ASICs, and VHDL IP modules to simplify implementations and reduce development cost.

Practical applications and who uses it

ISO 20207:2015 is intended for:

• Space agencies and mission planners implementing cross‑support telemetry links.
• Satellite manufacturers and payload integrators seeking high‑rate downlink solutions.
• Ground station operators and system integrators deploying DVB‑S2‑based telemetry receivers.
• Telecom hardware vendors and FPGA/ASIC developers reusing DVB‑S2 VHDL IP for space applications.

Primary applications include high‑throughput telemetry for Earth observation satellites, near‑EESS payload data transfer, and any mission where adaptive modulation/coding and reuse of telecom components improve throughput and interoperability.

Related standards

• CCSDS Space Link Protocols (CCSDS 131.3‑B‑1 / referenced CCSDS documents)
• ETSI DVB‑S2 standard (telecom baseline referenced in the profile)
• ISO/TC 20 SC 13 space data and information transfer standards

Keywords: ISO 20207:2015, DVB‑S2, CCSDS, telemetry, CADU, ASM, VCM, ACM, LDPC, satellite communications, space link protocol.