Satellite Mega-Constellations: Communications and Networking
Satellite and Space Communications (SSC) - Special Interest Group (SIG)
Importance of the topic
There is rejuvenated interest in satellite communications and networking. Both the satellite and cellular (3GPP) industries aim at developing a seamlessly integrated one network with both terrestrial and satellite components. One main difference between the legacy satellite systems and the mega-constellations of the 6G era (next-generation) satellite system is the networking aspect. The next-generation satellite networks are expected to have very high-speed inter-satellite links. For efficient operation, the network will have to be autonomous, intelligent, resilient, self-organizing & self-controlling as much as possible to reduce the cost and risk of human intervention in such highly complicated settings. Distributed decision making, fault recovery, resilience, and scalability are among the important features of the envisioned satellite networks. These networks will rely on artificial intelligence (AI) techniques as much as possible, at all levels: Ground operations, on-board operations, as well as inter-satellite (FSO) and satellite-to-ground links (RF and/or FSO). In addition to networking, the scope of the SIG includes the communications aspects as well for AI-enabled channel prediction and optimized physical layer; grouping them in a single project is envisioned to provide synergy. High altitude platform station (HAPS) systems and HAPS constellations are also expected to play a significant role in the seamless integration of the mega-constellations with the terrestrial networks. Clearly, the satellite mega-constellations in the 6G era will create unprecedented opportunities once the unprecedented challenges are addressed by the research community.
Scope
Architecture / Structure / Management / Orbital Dynamics
Design and analysis of satellite mega-constellations
Integrated terrestrial-satellite networks
HAPS (high altitude platform station) systems and HAPS constellations
Standardization activities, 5G/6G coexistence
Mobility/handover/topology management and addressing in satellite networks
Routing in satellite networks
Ownership models and their impact on requirements and architecture
Innovative revenue maximization approaches
Networking / Applications / Operation / Integration / Control / AI
AI/ML for satellite networks
Novel use-cases including IoT and M2M applications
Enhanced localization and navigation
Edge computing and caching over satellite networks
Testbeds for satellite networks and experimental studies
OAM (operations, administration, maintenance) aspects in satellite networks
Simulation platforms for satellite networks
Communication / Security / Cryptography / Quantum Processing
Advanced physical layer technologies
FSO (free space optical) communications for satellite networks
Inter-satellite links (ISLs)
Cyber-attacks against satellites/constellations and countermeasures
Quantum key distribution (QKD) in satellite networks
Random access techniques for satellite networks
Dynamic spectrum and spectrum harmonization
Innovative interference management techniques, including massive-MIMO and RIS elements
Security, privacy and authentication in satellite networks
Physical layer security technologies
Cooperative communications and computing in satellite networks