PAGE CONTENTS
Objectives
The objective of the ONEST project is to design and implement a flexible, modular testbed for optical and quantum communication networks, enabling the integration and testing of real and simulated Optical Ground Stations (OGSs). ONEST supports automated pass handling, satellite link scheduling, and Delay-Tolerant Networking (DTN) for reliable end-to-end data delivery. The system allows external parties to register OGSs and roaming networks, manage interfaces, and conduct performance validation through realistic or emulated satellite scenarios. By combining link planning, satellite emulation, and network orchestration within a unified architecture, ONEST aims to advance European capabilities in secure, high-throughput space communications and provide a scalable environment for technology prototyping, validation, and inter-network cooperation.
Challenges
Key challenges of the ONEST project include the integration of existing and simulated Optical Ground Stations within a unified, delay-tolerant communication environment.
Managing handovers across heterogeneous OGS networks, ensuring interface interoperability, and automating satellite link scheduling under variable orbital and weather conditions add complexity.
The system must also support precise link budget calculations and robust external data interfacing for operational accuracy.
System Architecture
The ONEST system architecture is designed as a layered framework supporting both operational and simulated Optical Ground Stations (OGSs) for optical communication. It is structured into three primary planes: the management plane, the data plane, and the simulation plane.
The management plane handles control logic, scheduling, configuration, and monitoring. Central components include the OGS Resource Planner, which coordinates availability and resource allocation; the OGS Scheduler, which manages satellite pass windows; and the Link Availability Calculator, which uses weather data to determine optimal communication conditions. The user interface component provides centralised user access for system configuration and status monitoring.
The data plane focuses on reliable data delivery. The DTN Network Manager ensures end-to-end communication across intermittent or delayed links using Delay-Tolerant Networking protocols. The User Data interface enables data exchange with external consumers.
The simulation plane includes the OGS Simulator and Satellite Simulator, which allow testing of network behaviour without real hardware. These components operate independently of the live network, enabling flexible scenario modelling.
All components are connected through well-defined interfaces and support both real-time operations and emulated workflows, ensuring the ONEST system is adaptable, scalable, and ready for future optical ground segment requirements.
Plan
The project was kicked off on 22 May 2025. The project plan comprises of the following milestones:
- Technical Baseline Review (TBR)
- Critical Design Review (CDR)
- Test Readiness Review (TRR)
- Final Review and Demonstration Kick-off with Testbed Workshop (FR)
- End of Project Final Presentation (FP)
Current Status
Currently the initial deliverables for the Technical Baseline Review (TBR) are in progress, including the State of the Art and Technical Specification documentation.