Multi-Layer Space Information Networks: Access Design and Softwarization

Abstract

In this paper, we propose an approach for constructing a multi-layer multi-orbit space information network (SIN) to provide high-speed continuous broadband connectivity for space missions (nanosatellite terminals) from the emerging space-based Internet providers. This notion has been motivated by the rapid developments in satellite technologies in terms of satellite miniaturization and reusable rocket launch, as well as the increased number of nanosatellite constellations in lower orbits for space downstream applications, such as earth observation, remote sensing, and Internet of Things (IoT) data collection. Specifically, space-based Internet providers, such as Starlink, OneWeb, and SES O3b, can be utilized for broadband connectivity directly to/from the nanosatellites, which allows a larger degree of connectivity in space network topologies. Besides, this kind of establishment is more economically efficient and eliminates the need for an excessive number of ground stations while achieving real-time and reliable space communications. This objective necessitates developing suitable radio access schemes and efficient scalable space backhauling using inter-satellite links (ISLs) and inter-orbit links (IOLs). Particularly, service-oriented radio access methods in addition to software-defined networking (SDN)-based architecture employing optimal routing mechanisms over multiple ISLs and IOLs are the most essential enablers for this novel concept. Thus, developing this symbiotic interaction between versatile satellite nodes across different orbits will lead to a breakthrough in the way that future downstream space missions and satellite networks are designed and operated.

A Survey on Nongeostationary Satellite Systems: The Communication Perspective

“…Assuming a scenario where small satellites for downstream applications can directly access the Internet via a space-based Internet provider in a higher orbit, the small satellites can be constantly connected to the network without depending on a private or shared distributed network of ground stations [284]. This is certainly a game changer for the design and operation of future downstream satellite missions, since the communication link has to be pointing towards the sky instead of the Earth.…”

Characterizing and Utilizing the Interplay between Quantum Technologies and Non-Terrestrial Networks

“…This large number of diverse platforms imposes exceptional technical challenges on system control and operation, where they need to be built on an autonomous and dynamic network architecture [56]. Therefore, these various space and aerial platforms can be interconnected via inter-aerial links (IALs), inter-satellite links (ISLs) and inter-orbit links (IOLs) to construct a multilayer integrated NTN systems, which can support real-time communications, massive data transmission, and systematized information services [57].…”

“…SDN enables agile and efficient network services through innovative and advanced resource management techniques. Within NTN context, SDN can play an important role owing to the offered operational flexibility, scalability, and the end-to-end service provisioning [57]. Furthermore, embedding SDN into satellites and aerial platforms can facilitate the interaction between non-terrestrial and terrestrial wireless networks, which allows addressing several coexisting challenges.…”

Model to Scale Rain Attenuation Time Series With Link Elevation Angle for LEO Satellite Based Systems

“…Its design is carried out by following well‐established procedures and by making use of prediction models with a solid background, which are continuously updated and improved (ITU‐R P.618‐13, 2017). Nevertheless, the GSO configuration also presents some drawbacks: it is not suitable for applications where, for instance, the length of the radio path to the satellite is challenging because of the limited output power of the ground (mobile) terminals (Al‐Hraishawi et al., 2021) or in the special case of providing an efficient downlink for Earth observation data, EODDL (Arapoglou & Panagopoulos, 2011). Consequently, the use of non‐GSO satellites is becoming more and more popular (Chen et al., 2021).…”