Space Communications Protocol Specifications (SCPS)

Space Communications Protocol Specifications (SCPS) are a set of new protocols and extensions to existing protocols to adapt IP communications to the unique environment of space.

These new and updated protocols are designed to improve reliability, error checking, efficiency and performance in communications between ground locations, manned craft and satellites.

The protocol stack in the SCPS uses the following protocols and improvements:

• SCPS-FP - FTP extensions increasing efficiency and adding file integrity checking as well as file integrated update records.
• SCPS-TP - TCP adjustable sender side options like longer delay, error rate and asymmetry tolerances.
• SCPS-SP - A new security protocol for space.
• SCPS-NP – A network protocol similar to but incompatible with IP including bit level efficiency.

The SCPS were created by the Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems (CCSDS), which includes most of the world's space organizations.