Regenerative pseudo-noise (PN) ranging sequences for deep-space missions

Space agencies are currently considering replacing conventional ranging systems with regenerative schemes for future demanding interplanetary missions. The Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems (CCSDS) in charge of standardization among Space Agencies is studying both Pseudo-Noise (PN) and Pseudo-Noise-Like (PNL) sequences and intends to generate a recommended standard (Blue Book) by 2007. The present paper treats the PNL schemes under consideration by CCSDS, with emphasis on the scrambled weighted-voting Stiffler PNL ranging-sequence scheme, which is proposed herein and which appears to be superior to all other PN and PNL ranging schemes. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.