Multi-network-region traffic cooperative scheduling in large-scale LEO satellite networks

A low-Earth-orbit(LEO)satellite network can provide full-coverage access services worldwide and is an essential candidate for future 6G networking.However,the large variability of the geographic distribution of the Earth’s population leads to an uneven service volume distribution of access service.Moreover,the limitations on the resources of satellites are far from being able to serve the traffic in hotspot areas.To enhance the forwarding capability of satellite networks,we first assess how hotspot areas under different load cases and spatial scales significantly affect the network throughput of an LEO satellite network overall.Then,we propose a multi-region cooperative traffic scheduling algorithm.The algorithm migrates low-grade traffic from hotspot areas to coldspot areas for forwarding,significantly increasing the overall throughput of the satellite network while sacrificing some latency of end-to-end forwarding.This algorithm can utilize all the global satellite resources and improve the utilization of network resources.We model the cooperative multi-region scheduling of large-scale LEO satellites.Based on the model,we build a system testbed using OMNET++to compare the proposed method with existing techniques.The simulations show that our proposed method can reduce the packet loss probability by 30%and improve the resource utilization ratio by 3.69%.

For LEO Satellite Networks: Intelligent Interference Sensing and Signal Reconstruction Based on Blind Separation Technology

In LEO satellite communication networks,the number of satellites has increased sharply, the relative velocity of satellites is very fast, then electronic signal aliasing occurs from time to time. Those aliasing signals make the receiving ability of the signal receiver worse, the signal processing ability weaker,and the anti-interference ability of the communication system lower. Aiming at the above problems, to save communication resources and improve communication efficiency, and considering the irregularity of interference signals, the underdetermined blind separation technology can effectively deal with the problem of interference sensing and signal reconstruction in this scenario. In order to improve the stability of source signal separation and the security of information transmission, a greedy optimization algorithm can be executed. At the same time, to improve network information transmission efficiency and prevent algorithms from getting trapped in local optima, delete low-energy points during each iteration process. Ultimately, simulation experiments validate that the algorithm presented in this paper enhances both the transmission efficiency of the network transmission system and the security of the communication system, achieving the process of interference sensing and signal reconstruction in the LEO satellite communication system.

Covert LEO Satellite Communication Aided by Generative Adversarial Network Based Cooperative UAV Jamming

In this paper,we study the covert performance of the downlink low earth orbit(LEO)satellite communication,where the unmanned aerial vehicle(UAV)is employed as a cooperative jammer.To maximize the covert rate of the LEO satellite transmission,a multi-objective problem is formulated to jointly optimize the UAV’s jamming power and trajectory.For practical consideration,we assume that the UAV can only have partial environmental information,and can’t know the detection threshold and exact location of the eavesdropper on the ground.To solve the multiobjective problem,we propose the data-driven generative adversarial network(DD-GAN)based method to optimize the power and trajectory of the UAV,in which the sample data is collected by using genetic algorithm(GA).Simulation results show that the jamming solution of UAV generated by DD-GAN can achieve an effective trade-off between covert rate and probability of detection errors when only limited prior information is obtained.

Joint Computing and Communication Resource Allocation for Satellite Communication Networks with Edge Computing

Benefit from the enhanced onboard processing capacities and high-speed satellite-terrestrial links,satellite edge computing has been regarded as a promising technique to facilitate the execution of the computation-intensive applications for satellite communication networks(SCNs).By deploying edge computing servers in satellite and gateway stations,SCNs can achieve significant performance gains of the computing capacities at the expense of extending the dimensions and complexity of resource management.Therefore,in this paper,we investigate the joint computing and communication resource management problem for SCNs to minimize the execution latency of the computation-intensive applications,while two different satellite edge computing scenarios and local execution are considered.Furthermore,the joint computing and communication resource allocation problem for the computation-intensive services is formulated as a mixed-integer programming problem.A game-theoretic and many-to-one matching theorybased scheme(JCCRA-GM)is proposed to achieve an approximate optimal solution.Numerical results show that the proposed method with low complexity can achieve almost the same weight-sum latency as the Brute-force method.

A Routing Strategy with Link Disruption Tolerance for Multilayered Satellite Networks

Link disruption has a considerable impact on routing in multilayered satellite networks, which includes predictable disruption from the periodic satellite motion and unpredictable disruption from communication faults. Based on the analysis on the predictability of satellite links, a link disruption routing strategy is proposed for multilayered satellite networks, where, a topology period is divided into non-uniform slots, and a routing table in each slot is calculated by the topology predictability of satellite networks, and a congestion control mechanism is proposed to ensure the reliable transmission of packets, and a flooding mechanism is given to deal with the routes selection in the case of unpredictable link disruption. This routing strategy is implemented on the satellite network simulation platform, the simulation results show that the strategy has less delay and higher link utilization, and can meet the routing requirements of multilayered satellite networks.

A Stackelberg Differential Game Based Bandwidth Allocation in Satellite Communication Network

In this paper, a Stackelberg differential game based approach is proposed to solve the bandwidth allocation problems in satellite communication network. All the satellites are divided into two groups, one has high download requirements, and the other one has low download requirements. Each satellites group has its own controller for bandwidth allocation, and can get payments from the satellites for the allocated resources. The relationships between the controllers and satellites are formed as a Stackelberg game. In our model, differential equation is introduced to describe the bandwidth dynamics for the whole satellite communication network. Combine the differential equation and Stackelberg game together, we can formulate the bandwidth allocation problems in satellite communication network as a Stackelber differential game. The solutions to the proposed game is solved based the Bellman dynamic equations. Numerical simulations are given to prove the effeteness and correctness of the proposed approach.

Reliability Evaluation of All-User Terminals in LEO Satellite Communication Network Based on Modular Reduction

LEO satellite communication network has a large number of satellites distributed in low orbits,which leads to multiple coverage of many areas on the ground.It is hard work to describe and evaluate the reliability of LEO satellite communication network.To solve this problem,the reliability of all-user terminals in LEO satellite communication network is defined,and the corresponding reliability evaluation method is proposed in the paper.Due to the large scale of the interstellar network,a modular reduction algorithm using the modular network instead of the original network for state decomposition is proposed in this paper.Case study shows that the calculation time of the proposed method is equivalent to 6.28%of the original state space decomposition algorithm.On this basis,the reliability of LEO satellite communication network is further analyzed.It is found that the reliability of LEO satellite network was more sensitive to the reliability of Inter-Satellite link and the satisfaction of global coverage in the early stage,and it is more sensitive to the reliability of the satellite in the later stage.The satellite-ground link has a relatively constant impact on of LEO satellite network.

A distributed routing algorithm based-on simplified topology in LEO satellite networks

In this paper, a distributed muting strategy based on simplified topology （DRBST） was proposed for LEO satellite networks. The topology of LEO satellite networks was simplified aiming at minimizing intersatellite links handover number. To optimize the route based on the simplified topology, we considered not only the transmission delay but also the queuing delay and the processing delay, which were analyzed using Markov chain and determined using a novel methodology. The DRBST algorithm was simulated in a LEO satellite networks model built using OPNET. The simulation results demonstrate that the low complexity DRBST algorithm can guarantee end-to-end delay bound. Moreover, the muting protocol cost is much less than traditional algorithms.

Satellite Communication System Using SSMA Techniques

A satellite communication system consisting of small earth terminals which utilize spread spectrum multiple access (SSMA) techniques is introduced in this paper. Having no master station, the system is distributively controlled. The frequency band used is 6/4GHz.

Reflection on the Development of Satellite Communications and the Integration with Terrestrial Mobile Communications

With the further reduction in cost and the increase in bandwidth, as well as the increase in internet applications, satellite communications are gradually shifting from a complementary role to becoming a fully integrated component of terrestrial communications networks. This paper firstly introduces the development of satellite communications, mobile communications and the global space-terrestrial integrated network. We then propose the functional architecture and network architecture for the integration of satellite communications and terrestrial mobile communications based on 5 G core networks. Finally, in order to support the network of the future, four key technologies are presented, a space-terrestrial integrated air interface design, a multi-band space-terrestrial integrated transmission waveform design, space-terrestrial integrated switching and routing technology, along with spectrum sharing and interference coordination technology, all necessary for the development of space-terrestrial integrated networks.

Dynamic Routing Algorithm for Increasing Robustness in Satellite Networks

In low earth orbit（LEO） and medium earth orbit（MEO） satellite networks, the network topology changes rapidly because of the high relative speed movement of satellites. When some inter-satellite links （ISLs） fail, they can not be repaired in a short time. In order to increase the robustness for LEO/MEO satel- lite networks, an effective dynamic routing algorithm is proposed. All the routes to a certain node are found by constructing a destination oriented acyclic directed graph（DOADG） with the node as the destination. In this algorithm, multiple routes are provided, loop-free is guaranteed, and as long as the DOADG maintains, it is not necessary to reroute even if some ISLs fail. Simulation results show that comparing to the conventional routing algorithms, it is more efficient and reliable, costs less transmission overhead and converges faster.

Joint User Association and Satellite Selection for Satellite-Terrestrial Integrated networks

In this paper, we investigate a cooperation mechanism for satellite-terrestrial integrated networks. The terrestrial relays act as the supplement of traditional small cells and cooperatively provide seamless coverage for users in the densely populated areas.To deal with the dynamic satellite backhaul links and backhaul capacity caused by the satellite mobility, severe co-channel interference in both satellite backhaul links and user links introduced by spectrum sharing,and the difference demands of users as well as heterogeneous characteristics of terrestrial backhaul and satellite backhaul, we propose a joint user association and satellite selection scheme to maximize the total sum rate. The optimization problem is formulated via jointly considering the influence of dynamic backhaul links, individual requirements and targeted interference management strategies, which is decomposed into two subproblems: user association and satellite selection. The user association is formulated as a nonconvex optimization problem, and solved through a low-complexity heuristic scheme to find the most suitable access point serving each user. Then, the satellite selection is resolved based on the cooperation among terrestrial relays to maximize the total backhaul capacity with the minimum date rate constraints. Finally,simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed scheme in terms of total sum rate and power efficiency of TRs' backhaul.

Link Budget Analysis for Massive-Antenna-Array-Enabled Terahertz Satellite Communications

Broadband satellite communications can enable a plethora of applications in customer services, global nomadic coverage and disaster prediction and recovery. Terahertz(THz) band is envisioned as a key satellite communication technology due to its very broad bandwidth, astrophysical observation advantages and device maturing in recent years. In this paper, a massive-antenna-array-enabled THz satellite communication system is proposed to be established in Tanggula, Tibet, where the average altitude is 5.068 km and the mean-clear-sky precipitable water vapor(PWV) is as low as 1.31 mm. In particular, a link budget analysis(LBA) framework is developed for THz space communications, considering unique THz channel properties and massive antenna array techniques. Moreover, practical siting conditions are taken into account, including the altitude, PWV, THz spectral windows, rain and cloud factors. On the basis of the developed link budget model, the massive antenna array model, and the practical parameters in Tanggula, the performances of signal-to-noise ratio(SNR) and capacity are evaluated. The results illustrate that 1 Tbit/s is attainable in the 0.275~0.37 THz spectral window in Tanggula, by using an antenna array of the size 64.

Low Altitude Satellite Constellation for Futuristic Aerial-Ground Communications

This paper discusses the significance and prospects of low altitude small satellite aerial vehicles to ensure smooth aerial-ground communications for next-generation broadband networks.To achieve the generic goals of fifthgeneration and beyondwireless networks,the existing aerial network architecture needs to be revisited.The detailed architecture of low altitude aerial networks and the challenges in resource management have been illustrated in this paper.Moreover,we have studied the coordination between promising communication technologies and low altitude aerial networks to provide robust network coverage.We talk about the techniques that can ensure userfriendly control and monitoring of the low altitude aerial networks to bring forth wireless broadband connectivity to a new dimension.In the end,we highlight the future research directions of aerial-ground communications in terms of access technologies,machine learning,compressed sensing,and quantum communications.

Coverage in Cooperative LEO Satellite Networks

Low-earth orbit(LEO)satellite networks ignite global wireless connectivity.However,signal outages and co-channel interference limit the coverage in traditional LEO satellite networks where a user is served by a single satellite.This paper explores the possibility of satellite cooperation in the downlink transmissions.Using tools from stochastic geometry,we model and analyze the downlink coverage of a typical user with satellite cooperation under Nakagami fading channels.Moreover,we derive the joint distance distribution of cooperative LEO satellites to the typical user.Our model incorporates fading channels,cooperation among several satellites,satellites'density and altitude,and co-channel interference.Extensive Monte Carlo simulations are performed to validate analytical results.Simulation and numerical results suggest that coverage with LEO satellites cooperation considerably exceeds coverage without cooperation.Moreover,there are optimal satellite density and satellite altitude that maximize the coverage probability,which gives valuable network design insights.

Forward link outage performance of aeronautical broadband satellite communications

High-throughput satellites(HTSs) play an important role in future millimeter-wave(mm Wave) aeronautical communication to meet high speed and broad bandwidth requirements. This paper investigates the outage performance of an aeronautical broadband satellite communication system’s forward link, where the feeder link from the gateway to the HTS uses free-space optical(FSO) transmission and the user link from the HTS to aircraft operates at the mm Wave band. In the user link, spot beam technology is exploited at the HTS and a massive antenna array is deployed at the aircraft. We first present a location-based beamforming(BF) scheme to maximize the expected output signal-to-noise ratio(SNR) of the forward link with the amplify-and-forward(AF) protocol,which turns out to be a phased array. Then, by supposing that the FSO feeder link follows Gamma-Gamma fading whereas the mm Wave user link experiences shadowed Rician fading, we take the influence of the phase error into account, and derive the closed-form expression of the outage probability(OP) for the considered system. To gain further insight, a simple asymptotic OP expression at a high SNR is provided to show the diversity order and coding gain. Finally, numerical simulations are conducted to confirm the validity of the theoretical analysis and reveal the effects of phase errors on the system outage performance.

From Earth to Space:A First Deployment of 5G Core Network on Satellite

Recent developments in the aerospace industry have led to a dramatic reduction in the manufacturing and launch costs of low Earth orbit satellites.The new trend enables the paradigm shift of satelliteterrestrial integrated networks with global coverage.In particular,the integration of 5G communication systems and satellites has the potential to restructure nextgeneration mobile networks.By leveraging the network function virtualization and network slicing,the satellite 5G core networks will facilitate the coordination and management of network functions in satellite-terrestrial integrated networks.We are the first to deploy a 5G core network on a real-world satellite to investigate its feasibility.We conducted experiments to validate the satellite 5G core network functions.The validated procedures include registration and session setup procedures.The results show that the satellite 5G core network can function normally and generate correct signaling.

A Performance Evaluation Platform for Mega Satellite Constellation Network

With the rapid development of satellite technology, mega satellite constellations have become a research hotspot. A large number of related techniques have been developed on orbit topology, network routing, energy balance and resource control. However, it is difficult to accurately compare the performance of similar studies due to differences in the means of validation. Especially for invulnerability studies in many military applications, a unified evaluation system is essential. This paper proposes a network evaluation system for mega satellite constellations. Evaluation parameters include orbit topology, communication network, energy balance and invulnerability. Different application algorithms and traffic models were used to validate the specific system. .

Application of Contact Graph Routing in Satellite Delay Tolerant Networks

Satellite networks have many inherent advantages over terrestrial networks and have become an important part of the global network infrastructure.Routing aimed at satellite networks has become a hot and challenging research topic.Satellite networks,which are special kind of Delay Tolerant Networks(DTN),can also adopt the routing solutions of DTN.Among the many routing proposals,Contact Graph Routing(CGR) is an excellent candidate,since it is designed particularly for use in highly deterministic space networks.The applicability of CGR in satellite networks is evaluated by utilizing the space oriented DTN gateway model based on OPNET(Optimized Network Engineering Tool).Link failures are solved with neighbor discovery mechanism and route recomputation.Earth observation scenario is used in the simulations to investigate CGR's performance.The results show that the CGR performances are better in terms of effectively utilizing satellite networks resources to calculate continuous route path and alternative route can be successfully calculated under link failures by utilizing fault tolerance scheme.

Dynamic Connectivity in Cislunar Communication Networking Based on Geosynchronous Orbit Relay Satellites

The architecture of cislunar multi-hop communication networks, which focuses on the requirements of lunar full-coverage and continuous cislunar communications, is presented on the basis of Geosynchronous Orbit (GEO) satellite network relays. According to the geographical distribution of the forthcoming Chinese Deep Space Measuring and Controlling Network (DSMCN), two networking schemes are proposed and two elevation angle optimization models are established for locating GEO relay satellites. To analyze the dynamic connectivity, a dynamic network model is constructed with respect to the time-varying characteristics of cislunar trunk links. The advantages of the two proposed schemes, in terms of the Connectivity Rate (CR), Interruption Frequency (IF), and Average Length of Connecting Duration (ALCD), are corroborated by several simulations. In the case of the lunar polar orbit constellation case, the gains in the performance of scheme I are observed to be 134.55%, 117.03%, and 217.47% compared with DSMCN for three evaluation indicators, and the gains in the performance of scheme II are observed to be 238. 22%, 240.40%, and 572.71%. The results validate that the connectivity of GEO satellites outperforms that of earth facilities significantly and schemes based on GEO satellite relays are promising options for cislunar multi-hop communication networking.