NASA Deep Space Network

The NASA Deep Space Network (NASA DSN or DSN) is the unit within NASA that carries out radio communication with spacecraft, e.g., those at other planets. It operates large-dish transceivers (some 34 meters, a few 70 meters) at three locations. In addition to the communication function, which does not require all the equipment all the time, the dishes are operated as radio telescopes and for radar astronomy. The DSN also borrows the use of radio telescopes when their own equipment does not meet their needs. Equipment locations:

• Goldstone Deep Space Communications Complex (GDSCC), in the Mojave Desert in California.
• Madrid Deep Space Communications Complex (MDSCC), Spain.
• Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex (CDSCC), Australia.