One exemplary embodiment is directed to a method for deep space communication. The method comprises generating a first packet, assigning a first priority level to the first packet, and selecting at least one communication link from a plurality of communication links for transmission of the first packet. Selecting is a function of a rule specifying which one or more communication links a packet of the first priority level is to be transmitted over. The method also includes transmitting the first packet over the at least one communication link