ISO 21460:2015 PDF

Overview

ISO 21460:2015 - “Space data and information transfer systems - Proximity-1 space link protocol - Physical layer” - is the ISO adoption of the CCSDS Proximity‑1 Physical Layer recommended standard (CCSDS 211.1‑B‑4). This document specifies the Physical Layer procedures for short‑range, bi‑directional space links (Proximity‑1), including the channel connection process, frequency bands and assignments, hailing channel, polarization, modulation, data rates, and performance requirements. The Physical Layer in ISO 21460:2015 currently covers UHF operations for the Mars environment. The Data Link Layer and Coding/Synchronization sublayer are defined in separate CCSDS documents.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Channel connection process - procedures for establishing and maintaining short, independent proximity sessions.
• Frequency bands & channel assignments - assignment tables and provisions for UHF frequencies used in Mars proximity links.
• Hailing channel & polarization - provisions for initial contact (hailing) and use of polarization to support link robustness.
• Modulation and data rates - specified modulation methods and supported data‑rate options appropriate for proximity communications.
• Performance requirements - receiver/transmitter performance targets (e.g., oscillator phase noise considerations, discrete spectral templates) and link budget considerations.
• Radio equipment categories & control variables - classification of on‑board/ground equipment and the control signals required for transmitter/receiver operation.
• Scope limits - ISO 21460:2015 does not mandate specific products, service interface implementations, particular technologies or mission management processes.

Applications and who uses it

ISO 21460:2015 is intended for systems requiring standardized short‑range space links, especially in planetary missions. Typical use cases:

• Communications between landers, rovers, orbiters and relay satellites (e.g., Mars surface/relay operations).
• Design and verification of UHF transceivers, ground stations, and proximity radios for inter‑vehicle links.
• Mission architects and systems engineers preparing cross‑support agreements between agencies.
• Standards developers, spacecraft manufacturers, and test laboratories needing interoperability baselines for Proximity‑1 links.

Related standards

• CCSDS Proximity‑1 Space Link Protocol - Coding and Synchronization Sublayer (related recommended standard).
• CCSDS Proximity‑1 Space Link Protocol - Data Link Layer (related recommended standard).
• ISO/TC 20 Subcommittee SC 13 (Space data and information transfer systems) - committee responsible for adoption.

Keywords: ISO 21460:2015, Proximity‑1, space link protocol, physical layer, UHF, Mars, CCSDS, proximity communications, modulation, data rates, frequency assignments.