01Definition
The link segment is the set of communication links that connect the ground and the space segments of a space system.
The link segment carries commands up to the spacecraft and data down to the ground. It is a target for jamming, spoofing, and interception, so hardening these links is a core part of space cybersecurity.
02Related terms
- Space segment: The space segment is the part of a space system that is in orbit: the satellites and spacecraft themselves.
- Ground segment: The ground segment is the part of a space system on Earth: the ground stations, networks, and control systems that command satellites and receive their data.
- Telemetry, tracking, and command: Telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C) is the system that monitors a spacecraft, tracks its position, and sends it commands.
03Learn more
See space cybersecurity, operations and resilience for how these terms fit together, or browse the full glossary.