The interplanetary Internet is a conceived computer network in space, consisting of a set of network nodes that can communicate with each other.[1][2] These nodes are the planet's orbiters and landers, and the Earth ground stations. For example, the orbiters collect the scientific data from the Curiosity rover on Mars through near-Mars communication links, transmit the data to Earth through direct links from the Mars orbiters to the Earth ground stations via the NASA Deep Space Network, and finally the data routed through Earth's internal internet.[3]
Interplanetary communication is greatly delayed by interplanetary distances, so a new set of protocols and technologies that are tolerant to large delays and errors are required.[2] The interplanetary Internet is a store and forwardnetwork of internets that is often disconnected, has a wireless backbone fraught with error-prone links and delays ranging from tens of minutes to even hours, even when there is a connection.[4]
As of 2024 agencies and companies working towards bringing the network to fruition include NASA, ESA, SpaceX and Blue Origin.[5][6]
^Krupiarz, C.; Birrane, Edward J.; Ballard, Benjamin W.; Benmohamed, L.; Mick, A.; Stambaugh, Katherine A.; Tunstel, E. (2011). "Enabling the Interplanetary Internet"(PDF). Johns Hopkins APL Technical Digest. 30 (2): 122–134. S2CID46026742. Archived(PDF) from the original on August 18, 2021. Retrieved October 23, 2021.