Cloud-based computation and networking for space

Cloud computing has transformed the evolution of software for much of information technology (IT) industry. Focusing on developing microservices rather than complete platforms has significant advantages, including enterprise interoperability, resiliency, and reduced system development and sustainment costs. Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform, OpenStack, and Kubernetes are examples of public and private cloud technologies that commercial and government enterprise systems are migrating to. Unfortunately, these technologies do not extend to endpoints like Warfighter arm-mounted tablets and spacecraft. The goal of the Space Cloud Computing (SCC) project is to develop technologies that provide a corollary to public/private cloud concepts for all asset endpoints to enable new Warfighter planning and tasking concepts and superior levels of situational awareness. This paper explores the computation and networking challenges and solutions for such a platform in the space domain.