Title: The Deep Space Network: A Science Instrument Linking Ground and Space

Abstract:
The Deep Space Network is well known for its role in commanding and communicating with 
planetary spacecraft that are producing a steady stream of new discoveries.  The Deep Space 
Network antennas, in collaboration with European Space Agency Deep Space Antennas, also 
are used to perform precision astrometry of spacecraft, which is a critical element of navigating 
them to their destinations.

However, the antennas within the Deep Space Network are science instruments in their own 
right, complementing and extending the observations conducted with spacecraft.  Using radio 
science techniques that link a spacecraft and ground antenna, the atmospheres and interiors of 
solar system objects ranging from asteroids to planets can be probed.  Using radar 
transmissions, surface and sub-surface characteristics of asteroids, moons, and planets can be 
probed and orbits determined to high precision.

I summarize these science uses for the antennas of the Deep Space Network, highlighting 
recent discoveries, and sketch the path toward future capabilities and discoveries.