Deep Space Network - NOW

Have you ever wondered how NASA communicates with the numerous space craft that are exploring the solar system (and beyond)?  There are three major bases (Tracking Stations) at strategic locations around the world that together make up the Deep Space Network (DSN).  Which location "talks" to which craft in space depends on the rotation of the Earth.

NASA and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory have released a graphic website where you can see which dish, at which location is communicating to what craft in space.  The Deep Space Network - NOW site also provides interesting information on each of the Tracking Stations, their antennas, and the space craft they're communicating with.

Check it out... DSN-NOW... http://eyes.nasa.gov/dsn/dsn.html 

For more information on the Deep Space Network, see their home page (http://deepspace.jpl.nasa.gov/) or the DSN Canberra page (www.cdscc.nasa.gov/Pages/trackingtoday.html) for more information on the DSN-NOW site and their tracking schedule.