Project programme: Future Preparation

Home   /  ESA FDSat project

ESA FDSat project

Single Channel Full Duplex Techniques for Satellite Communications

Next generation of systems
STATUS | Completed
STATUS DATE | 16/08/2024
ACTIVITY CODE | 1B.133
ESA FDSat project

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Objectives

The ESA FDSat project ”Single Channel Full Duplex (FD) Techniques for Satellite Communications” was motivated by the need to utilise the available radio frequency (RF) spectrum more efficiently, and as a consequence, reduce the cost-per-bit that is delivered.
In this context, the main objective of the FDSat project is to assess the feasibility of applying single channel FD techniques within satellite communication networks. 

The main detailed objectives of the study are to:

  • Identify potential use cases for FD operation in SatCom.

  • Demonstrate the feasibility of FD operations in the selected SatCom use cases by means of analysis and simulations.

  • Identify the technological gaps and potential roadmap for developing and implementing the required SIC techniques needed to enable FD communications over the shortlisted SatCom use-cases.

  • Outline a proof-of-concept demonstrator that could be used for the validation of the most promising use-case and the identified techniques (in a possible future ARTES activity).

*fig caption: Example of FD use-case
*fig caption: Example of FD use-case

Challenges

Most satellite communication systems operate by transmitting and receiving via two separate frequency channels to achieve the required isolation between signals. However, with ever-increasing data volume demands accompanied by pressure to reduce the cost per bit delivered, new techniques to utilise the available radio frequency (RF) spectrum more efficiently are continually needed. 

Simultaneously transmitting and receiving information in a single frequency channel is known as Full-Duplex (FD) operation. FD has shown some promising results in terrestrial wireless communication application. In terms of benefits of the FD operation, besides the evident potential to increase the spectral efficiency, FD can also reduce the latency of the communication system, which is a critical aspect of satellite communication (SatCom) scenarios.

The FD technology has evolved tremendously between 2010 and 2020, moving from a laboratory idea to being incorporated into telecommunications standards. As a consequence of the encouraging results observed in terrestrial wireless communications, the ESA project FDSat “Single Channel Full Duplex Techniques for Satellite Communications” was conceived to assess the particular challenges of FD operation in SatCom scenarios. On one hand, SatCom is characterized by very high-power imbalance between the transmit and receive signals (a direct result of the very long transmission distances). On the other hand, both the user equipment (UE) and the satellite payload cannot afford high complexity hardware components, due to cost (in UE) and due to mass-volume limits (in the satellite).

System Architecture

The system architecture depends on the use-case. In general, 2 main architectures can be distinguished, as shown below:

Architecture 1 comprises two communication nodes (nodes A and B), whose communication links A-B and B-A operate at the same frequency and, thus, self-interference cancellation (SIC) is required in both nodes.

Architecture 2 comprises three communication nodes (nodes A, B and C), where communication links A-B and B-C operate at the same frequency and, thus, self-interference cancellation (SIC) is required only at node B.

Plan

ESA FDSat project started in March 2023 and concluded in June 2024.

  1. The project was composed of four main tasks:

  2. Survey of state-of-the-art

  3. Use case identification and justification

  4. Feasibility analysis

  5. Proof-of-Concept demonstration outline

  6. Technological roadmap

Current Status

Completed.

Companies

University of Luxembourg
University of Luxembourg
https://wwwen.uni.lu/
Luxembourg
Universidad de Vigo
Universidad de Vigo
https://gpsc.uvigo.es/
Spain
Gradiant (FUNDACIÓN CENTRO TECNOLÓXICO DE TELECOMUNICIÓNS DE GALICIA)
Gradiant (FUNDACIÓN CENTRO TECNOLÓXICO DE TELECOMUNICIÓNS DE GALICIA)
https://www.gradiant.org/en/
Spain
Home   /  Preparation of WRC-23

Preparation of WRC-23

Supporting Spectrum Strategies for Satellite Communications

Support to Telecom Strategy
STATUS | Completed
STATUS DATE | 15/08/2024
ACTIVITY CODE | 1D.021

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Objectives

The key objectives of this project are to:

  • Help develop and advocate positions favourable to the satellite sector, and specifically to ARTES industry, for future agenda items of WRC-23 and the topics which are discussed within CEPT.
  • Actively defend current spectrum allocations for satellite communications whilst seeking and investigating mutually beneficially sharing solutions for spectrum.
  • Keep detailed track of the on-going discussion in the relevant regulatory fora such as ITU Working Parties and ECC/CEPT Working Groups.
  • Prepare contributions to relevant meetings and for a accompanied by their technical justifications.
  • Actively seek and discuss with stakeholders and propose contributions to support new allocations.
  • Attempt to consolidate regulatory positions from large stakeholders within ARTES industry, including European satellite operators and be coordinated with the ESA Frequency Management Office.
  • Continuously produce an overview of the developments related to certain WRC- agenda items and CEPT Working Issues.
  • Increase the awareness regarding the spectrum issues which are at stake for ARTES stakeholders, including National Delegates.

Challenges

There were few challenges encountered in the study. However, maintaining a complete and fully up to date status across all of the wide ranging and growing list of satellite related issues for all administrations was challenging. This was mitigated by selecting the highest priority topics that would impact ARTES related issues.

System Architecture

— Not applicable —

Plan

The Work Packages were reviewed at the project kick off meeting held on 19 May 2022.

Work Package 1

WP1 comprises the preparation phase, in which various agenda items and work items were identified and critically assessed. This inception report forms part of WP1, which also includes the preparation report.

Work Package 2

WP2 comprises the activities required to manage the smaller sub-activities included in Work Package 3, and also the overall management of the project.

Work Package 3

WP3 comprises the sub-activities.

Work Package 4

WP4 comprises the efforts in monitoring and contributing to the various CEPT and ITU meetings.

Current Status

All of the deliverables outlined in the scope have been completed to the satisfaction of ESA.

The final report has been delivered and the sub-activity reports have been uploaded to the website.

Companies

LS telcom AG
LS telcom AG
https://www.lstelcom.com/en/home/
Germany
Home   /  ARTES Future Preparation 1A.127 Disruptive satcom ...

ARTES Future Preparation 1A.127 Disruptive satcom Systems Design with Digital Generative Design

ARTES Future Preparation 1A.127 Disruptive satcom Systems Design with Digital Generative Design

Support to Telecom Strategy
STATUS | Ongoing
STATUS DATE | 24/07/2024
ACTIVITY CODE | 1A.127

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Objectives

The primary goal of this project is to enhance our collective 
understanding of the advantages and challenges associated with employing generative AI in satellite communication (SatCom) design. It seeks to pinpoint the most advanced tools and methods presently utilised in generative AI across various industries, determining their relevance to the SatCom sector and the necessary modifications to tailor these tools for SatCom applications.

The task also includes the delivery of three proof-of-concept generative design tools.

Ultimately, the project outlines a detailed plan for integrating these tools into SatCom design, complete with projected timelines and development expenses.

Challenges

The primary challenge of this project lies in the untested nature and complexity of generative AI techniques within the SatCom domain. These AI technologies, while promising, present a steep learning curve and uncertainty regarding their direct applicability and effectiveness in SatCom design. 

It is essential to ensure that the AI-generated solutions are not only innovative but also practical, manufacturable, and compliant with industry standards. Additionally, the success of generative AI heavily relies on the availability and quality of data.

System Architecture

Using state-of-the-art AI techniques, such as diffusion models and transformers, we aim to embed generative AI within the design processes. We use cloud computing and GPUs to process and analyse vast amounts of data efficiently.

The project covers the delivery of software proof-of-concepts of the following key components:

  • A generative model capable of delivering 3D designs for SatCom parts.

  • Large Language Models (LLMs) as design support, offering an innovative way to interact with design software. 

  • A diffusion-based satellite image generator.

To ensure these tools are accessible and user-friendly, a user interface is provided that allows people to experiment with and explore the capabilities of our software.

Plan

This project spans 9 months, starting from the 1st of July 2024.

The project tasks include:

  • Survey and Assessment of Current Generative AI Techniques

  • Identification of Potential SatCom Applications for Generative Design

  • Development of Generative AI Models

  • Hardware Assessment

  • Programmatic Legal and Development Gaps

Milestone 1 is achieved upon completing tasks 1 and 2, followed by Milestone 2 with the completion of task 3. The final milestone is reached at the project’s conclusion.

Additionally, a workshop with industry experts takes place at the end of Task 2.

Current Status

The project, started on 1st July 2024, is progressing well. Currently, a literature review on the state-of-the-art (SOTA) in generative design is underway, laying the foundational understanding necessary for the project’s success. The next phase involves a comprehensive review of SOTA tools in satellite communication (SatCom) design, set to begin shortly. This sequential approach ensures a thorough exploration of existing knowledge and technologies, moving the project from its initial feasibility study towards a more developed and demonstrative phase.

Companies

Applied Data Science Partners Ltd.
Applied Data Science Partners Ltd.
http://adsp.ai
United Kingdom
Reflex Aerospace
Reflex Aerospace
https://www.reflexaerospace.com/
Germany
Anywaves
Anywaves
https://anywaves.com/
France
University of Glasgow
University of Glasgow
https://www.gla.ac.uk/
United Kingdom
Home   /  FELICO

FELICO

FEEDER LINK ARCHITECTURES FOR FUTURE NGSO CONSTELLATIONS

Future Preparation Next generation of systems
STATUS | Completed
STATUS DATE | 14/06/2024
ACTIVITY CODE | 1B.132
FELICO

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Objectives

New projects using the Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbits (NGSO) in higher frequencies are considered to increase the link capacities and the reduction of the number of the required ground sites. However, the links operating at higher frequencies are impaired by higher atmospheric attenuations, which causes link outages and might require additional ground stations to maintain QoS.
The main objective of the study is a system-level assessment of the best approach for implementing feeder links in future Non-Geostationary communication constellations. Three feeder link categories are under the scope of the study:

  • Typical RF feeder link using Ka frequency band (Super High Frequency SHF)

  • Future RF feeder link using V and/or W frequency bands (Extremely High Frequency EHF)

  • Optical feeder links

Different Low Earth Orbit (LEO) scenarios are implemented to simulate the different feeder link designs with a focus on topology, implementation, operations and service-level impacts.

Challenges

Transitioning to higher frequency bands increase the available bandwidth and therefore the link capacity, potentially driving to a reduction in the number of ground sites required. However, links operating at higher frequencies are impaired by higher atmospheric attenuations and might require additional ground stations to maintain availability requirements. 
When optical technologies are considered for the links between the ground and space segments, this gives the system a potentially unbeatable capacity per link under the assumption of a clear line-of-sight, a limited atmospheric turbulence and a highly accurate pointing requirement with point-ahead-angle implied by such a low orbit.
 

System Architecture

The simulation environment easily defines, simulates and compares different system configurations. At high level, a non-exhaustive list of input parameters could be defined by:

  • Constellation pattern 

  • Traffic demand and distribution 

  • Payload and platform specification 

  • Feeder link: data rate vs elevation angle, impairment threshold 

  • Ground stations: locations, azimuth-elevation mask, number of antennas, sun exclusion angle 

  • ISL topology 

  • Date and duration of simulated period 

  • Weather dataset 

From these inputs, a functional block diagram of the simulation tool is presented here below. Functionalities of two blocks of importance are detailed below: 

  • Satellite-to-GW access block does not only consider geometrical visibilities but also EPFD constraints and an access computation scheme taking into account atmospheric impairment as well as station and payload characteristics. 

  • The Feeder allocation planning algorithm defines the sequence of ground stations that are connected to each satellite taking into account the handover constraints and minimizing the required number of antennas per site.

diagram

 

Plan

Kick-off of the project, October 2022. 
Scenarios Definition Review, January 2023

  • Definition and justification of 2 constellations, traffic model considering representative of future demand.

  • Definition of a list of candidate teleport locations RF and Optical with relevant locations.

  • Definition of feeder link designs including architectures for RF and optical frequencies.

  • Trade off over representative architectures.

  • Link budget analysis considering ITU recommendations, atmospheric impairments, different elevation angles and availabilities.

Performance Review, April 2023

  • Detailed analysis and justification of representative scenarios and architectures

Final Review, 21st November 2023

Current Status

Finalized

Companies

Airbus Defence & Space (United Kingdom & France)
Airbus Defence & Space (United Kingdom & France)
https://www.airbus.com/space.html
Airbus Italia S.p.A
Airbus Italia S.p.A
http://www.airbus.com/
Italy
Home   /  Towards Standardised RF Inter-Satellite Link Solut...

Towards Standardised RF Inter-Satellite Link Solutions

Towards Standardised RF Inter-Satellite Link Solutions

Competitiveness & Growth Support to Telecom Strategy
STATUS | Completed
STATUS DATE | 22/04/2024
ACTIVITY CODE | 1A.116

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Objectives

The objectives of the project are as follows:

  1. Explore the definition of a set of consolidated RF ISL system architectures that are applicable for a range of mission scenarios taking into account various system topologies, design principles and qualification requirements.

  2. Define baseline system, sub-system, and equipment specification envelopes based on size, weight, power and minimum performance requirements applicable to the most common mission scenarios.

  3. Explore the limits of establishing commonality in the physical and digital interfaces of the various system elements and seek to promote design reusability throughout the value chain.

  4. Propose a baseline (First Issue) Standardised RF ISL System Framework, clearly identifying its scope, objectives, and contents to enable system designers and equipment manufacturers to specify and design against a common set of system, sub-system, and equipment requirements

  5. Define a governance structure to ensure the Framework is manageable, stays relevant, and delivers its intended objectives, and also includes the means to encourage and facilitate continuous improvement.

  6. Propose an implementation plan for the Framework and recommend follow on activities.

Challenges

The key challenges of the project fundamentally relate to the breadth of use cases for inter-satellite links, ranging from low-cost nanosatellite constellations to high reliability deep space network nodes.

The aim of this project is to develop a framework to allow standardisation of this broad spectrum without severely compromising use cases or performance for any particular application or mission.

System Architecture

The framework uses a generic modular inter-satellite link communications system as the baseline for defining subsystems and elements. This is intended to allow interchangeability between elements of the system (e.g. antennas, amplifiers, baseband).

Plan

The project consists of 2 key phases.

In the first phase existing technologies, frameworks and mission requirements for inter-satellite links are explored and captured. These requirements are then analysed and used to generate a baseline architectural definition for an inter-satellite link product alongside an outline structure and content for the framework itself.

The second phase of the project uses the inputs from the first phase to generate an initial draft of the framework, alongside management constraints with respect to technical review, governance and lifecycle. The framework is shared with industry and updated based on feedback.

Current Status

The project has concluded its research into current and future use of ISL technologies and analysis of other industry leading frameworks.

The analysis concluded that an industry led, ESA backed, framework based upon best of industry knowledge would be a suitable mechanisms to lead towards standardisation of RF ISL Systems. A proposed framework was drafted along with an implementation strategy and after initial industry engagement there is initial interest to drive the framework forward.

Companies

QinetiQ Ltd
QinetiQ Ltd
http://www.QinetiQ.com
United Kingdom
Goonhilly Earth Station
Goonhilly Earth Station
http://www.goonhilly.org
United Kingdom
Redwire Space
Redwire Space
https://redwirespace.com/
Belgium
Mansat
Mansat
https://www.mansat.org/
United Kingdom
Home   /  ACROSS-AIR

ACROSS-AIR

Advanced Broadband Satcom Solutions for Rotary Wing Aircraft

Next generation of systems
STATUS | Completed
STATUS DATE | 15/01/2025
ACTIVITY CODE | 1B.136
ACROSS-AIR

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Objectives

The objectives can be summarized as follows:

  • Identify Satcom needs of rotary wing aircraft markets and compare the needs against emerging capabilities from advanced novel technologies;

  • Explore technical challenges in the application of satellite connectivity at this type of aircraft;

  • Define high-level requirements to accomplish efficient satellite connectivity, in particular examining a set of representative scenarios and use-cases;

  • Perform a system level modelling, simulation and analysis to examine potential E2E architectures; and,

  • Assess the outcomes of the previous analysis in order to identify the current technical and non-technical gaps and propose a related roadmap for the future.

Challenges

This type of Satcom systems face several challenges like:

  • Low altitude of operation;

  • Operation in narrow areas such valleys or cities;

  • Rotation of blades and relatively strong vibrations;

  • Physical characteristics of terminals (current market products too bulky, heavy or non-conformal to be installed on smaller air frames);

  • Current status of the orbital segment not clear on how to be optimally exploited by such systems;

  • Mainly military products available, for large helicopters.

System Architecture

The architectures examined were related to indicative use cases such as for public safety, response to emergency situations, human transportation and healthcare services. They covered E2E the whole system, in particular the terminal system on the Rotary Wing Aircraft (systems depending on the exact aircraft type and scenario), the approach needed from the aircraft manufacturers, to the space segment, the number of satellites needed, their altitude, specific requirements on their payloads, etc.

Plan

The project plan consisted of the following parts, which have been completed in 12 months:

  • Technology and Market Assessment, consisting of the Technical and the Market Surveys.

  • The results of the Assessment, gave the necessary insights for the Scenario Development, Trade Off and Selection.

  • Both previous parts guided the Consortium to the detailed System Requirements and Trade-Off Analysis. An SRR with ESA gave the opportunity to review all these items.

  • Following that, the System Definition, Modelling and Simulation took place.

  • The results of the previous part, drove the study to the Gap Analysis and Roadmap development, and the finalisation of the project.

Current Status

Completed.

Companies

Intracom Defense S.A.
Intracom Defense S.A.
https://www.intracomdefense.com/
Greece
Alpha Unmanned Systems S.L.
Alpha Unmanned Systems S.L.
https://alphaunmannedsystems.com/
Spain
OHB HELLAS
OHB HELLAS
https://www.ohb-hellas.gr/
Greece
Home   /  MARINA

MARINA

Multi Access RelatIve performaNce compArison for GSO broadband satellite networks

Support to Standardisation and Special Interest Group
STATUS | Ongoing
STATUS DATE | 29/01/2025
ACTIVITY CODE | 1D.024
MARINA

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Objectives

The project aims to fulfil the following objectives:

  • Compare the performance of DVB-S2x/RCS2 and 5G-NR NTN protocols when deploying broadband satellite services from geostationary orbits in the higher frequency bands (i.e., FR2).

  • Follow/monitor the ETSI work item “Comparison of DVB-S2x/RCS2 and 3GPP 5G-NR NTN based systems for broadband satellite communication systems” led by the SES-SCN working group and contribute the project findings, when applicable.

  • Identify potential improvements in 5G-NR when operating in such GEO High Throughput Satellite (HTS) scenarios, i.e., generate inputs for consideration under 3GPP Release 18 and beyond.

  • Investigate specific techniques to reduce the Peak to Average Power Ratio (PAPR) (and hence reduce linearity constraints) when operating either multiple 5G-NR or DVB-S2x carriers in a single satellite transmission path.

  • Propose a list of recommended follow-up activities to overcome the identified performance issues (esp. related to 5G NR/NTN).

Objectives for CCN1 are the following:

  • Evaluate technical IMT-2020 requirements defined by ITU-R by analysis, inspection and system/link-level simulations.

  • Collaborate with other IEGs to discover discrepancies in the evaluations.

  • Report progress to and present the achievements in ETSI SES-SCN and to ITU-R WP4B meetings.

Challenges

Some potential challenges related to the technology comparison are:

  • So called “apples-to-apples” comparison between the DVB-S2X/RCS2 and 5G NR/NTN technologies, both at link and system level, i.e., scenarios, assumptions, parameters, and models need to be the same or at least comparable.

  • Project dependency on progress of ETSI SES-SCN work item, which may affect the project schedule in terms of scenario, parameter, and model assumption agreements. On the other hand, the MARINA project aims to actively contribute and drive the standardization such that the standardization schedule and project schedule can be met.

  • There is a possibility for LLS and SLS simulation results inconsistencies for a given technology. The objective is to use the LLS simulation results as an input to the SLS to avoid any inconsistencies.

Potential challenges in CCN1:

  • Capability to run link-level simulations which is a requirement in a specific set of IMT-2020 evaluation items.

System Architecture

The system level simulations used within the project are:

  • ALIX 5G TN/NTN SLS developed earlier in ESA ALIX AO 8985 “Support to Standardisation of Satellite 5G Component” project.

  • Satellite Network Simulator 3 (SNS3) simulator, modelling DVB-S2X/RCS2 GEO system, developed earlier in ESA AO6947 “Development of an Open-Source, Modular and Flexible Satellite Network Simulator” project.

Both simulators are designed and developed by Magister Solutions. The link level simulators used within the activity are proprietary.

The evaluated system scenarios within the project are heavily inspired by 3GPP NTN simulation scenarios, assumptions, and parameters.

Like DVB-S2X/RCS2 and 5G NR/NTN comparison, system-level simulations in CCN1 are performed with the ALIX simulator.
 

Plan

The project started in June 2023 and with 10 months duration is scheduled to end in April 2024. The work has been divided into following work packages:

  • WP1: Reference Scenario Descriptions and Definition of the Simulation Tools

  • WP2: SES-SCN Support

  • WP3: Protocols Performance Comparison

  • WP4: Conclusions, Roadmap and Recommendations

  • WP5: Project Management

CCN1 project started in June 2024 and scheduled to end in November 2024. The follow work packages are defined for CCN1:

  • WP6.1: Overall independent evaluation approach review

  • WP6.2: Evaluation of requirements through analysis

  • WP6.3: Evaluation of requirements through SLS/LLS

  • WP6.4: Interactions with ETSI & ITU-R WP4B

Current Status

Project started officially on 12.6.2023 and an internal KO meeting was held on 19.6.2023. Final review was held on 30.5.2024 with approved decision, but work continued in CCN1 scope with completely different scope. The CCN1 work was reviewed and deliverables approved at CCN1 MS2 review 17.12.2024. The project activities are completed.

Companies

Magister Solutions
Magister Solutions
https://www.magister.fi
Finland
Thales Alenia Space - France
Thales Alenia Space - France
https://www.thalesgroup.com/fr/espace
France
Home   /  OSSMISI

OSSMISI

- ESA-community Open-source Satellite Mission and Communications Analysis Simulator Tool

Support to Telecom Strategy
STATUS | Ongoing
STATUS DATE | 24/07/2023
ACTIVITY CODE | 1A.120
OSSMISI

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Objectives

The project aims to design and develop an open-source satellite mission and communications analysis simulation tool. This too addresses the industry’s main pain points and attempt to tackle them efficiently. The simulator is designed following the Agile Development methodology, aiming to create a set of core functionalities that turns this tool into a competitive product. When the tool’s initial version is completed, a more extensive Software Development Plan of the Full Version is compiled, focusing on the potential next steps to help turn the Full Version of the Simulator into a usable commercial product. In addition, for the needs of this project and to facilitate a better user support experience, a detailed user guide is compiled, and a series of video tutorials is released to provide users with informative training sessions. Once the tool is ready, the reaching out and dissemination part will be initiated. This includes promoting the tool to different online platforms, creating and running an online community dedicated to the tool, and generating a list of potential users that could become the community’s first members.

Challenges

This project’s key challenges are identifying and defining the industry’s pain points precisely and creating a simulator tool to tackle these efficiently. This means the simulator tool should be user-friendly, robust, diverse, cross-platform and affordable to become highly competitive with existing tools. Striking the right balance between versatility and cost-effectiveness. Another challenge is building a community around the tool, especially in the early development phases.

System Architecture

Beginning from a high-level architecture perspective and for the project’s needs, the re-purposing of existing open-source modules/libraries/code in a novel way takes place. Additional development is taking place where needed. This is the most efficient way forward for the project way as it emphasizes community building, as well as fosters a strong upstream/downstream relation among projects. The architecture of this project envisions a modular hosted microservices system with a web-based user interface that can be hosted and served to the end users.

Plan

Phase 1: User Needs and Planning
1.0Survey of other tools, defining user needs, requirements and features.

2.0 Tool production assessment and validation costs (future hosting, distribution, promotion, and maintenance).
Milestone 1: Verification and acceptance of URR, FAR

Phase 2: Design and Development of the Simulator
3.0 Designing the Simulator Tool.

4.0 Software Development Plan Update.
Milestone 2: Verification and acceptance of SSR

5.0 User Guide and Video Tutorials Preparation.

Phase 2: Next Steps and Outreach
6.0 Community building.

Milestone 3: Verification and acceptance of the outputs and all deliverables (Final Review)

Current Status

At this point, the first phase of the activity has been completed. This includes the survey and assessment of the existing simulator tools. An assessment of the User Needs and requirements as defined by the interviewees. A list of the Software Requirements for a Full version of the Simulator and a preliminary assessment of community creation, building and maintenance. Once Phase 1 is completed successfully, and upon approval by the Agency, the next steps take place, including the actual design and development of the simulation tool.

Companies

Libre Space Foundation
Libre Space Foundation
https://libre.space
Greece
Home   /  Multi-Layered SatCom Systems (MLS)

Multi-Layered SatCom Systems (MLS)

- Multi-Layered SatCom Systems

Future Preparation Next generation of systems Space Segment - Payload Space Segment - Platform System/ Network/ Protocols
STATUS | Completed
STATUS DATE | 14/06/2024
ACTIVITY CODE | 1B.131
Multi-Layered SatCom Systems (MLS)

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Objectives

Future SATCOM networks will span multiple orbits, like geostationary equatorial orbit (GEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), and low Earth orbit (LEO), among others. In addition, they will also cover multiple frequency bands, satellite operators and network designs. These multi-layered, hybrid networks allow for enhanced communications and protect against potential disruptions or attacks. This research studies the future implementation and use cases of such networks. It will focus on examining current technology trends and assessing probable markets that could utilize multi-layered SATCOM applications. The aim is to achieve a system design that is able to support both current and future satellite service types, interoperability, and increased spectral efficiency.

Challenges

Finding a solution that serves remote and hard to reach places, rather than providing more satcom services to already data rich areas. A multi layered solution exploiting existing constellations needs to interoperate with different latency and form factor standards. There is no one terminal that will meet all the requirements of an MLS solution and the cost of developing a new terminal are economically prohibitive. Compromise and collaboration with existing technologies and vendors is the only way.

System Architecture

This MLS system consists of a concurrent GEO + LEO network for high speed, low latency, affordable internet access. Smart routing exploits the latency, data rate, capacity economics, and geographic coverage of the constituent networks and can provide path resilience by using one, or both, of the constituent networks based on user experience or requirements, weather, jamming, cyber-attack, etc and leverages the individual benefits of GEO and LEO to deliver cost effective bandwidth with the perception of LEO-like latency.

The GEO segment will be procured as a commodity from existing capability. The baseline delivery will consist of 3 GEO satellites providing Ka-band capacity with near-global. As markets fluctuate and more GEO capacity is made available through new on-orbit capability.

The LEO segment will consist of a constellation of ~1,000 satellites of 24kg mass, operating in 4 shells of varying inclination at altitudes around 1000km, providing global coverage at LEO with the majority of capacity covering the majority of the global population.  The LEO satellites will operate in E-band with RF V-band ISL capability on ~25% of the fleet to minimise gateway demands and extend coverage to those gateways.

Plan

The project comprised 6 tasks, each deriving technical notes that provide the data.

Task 1: Market and Technology Assessment

Task 2: Scenario Development, Trade Off, and Selection

Task 3: System Requirements and Trade Off Analysis

Task 4: System Definition, Modelling, and Simulation

Task 5: Economic and Regulatory Analysis

Task 6: Gap Analysis and Roadmap

Current Status

All task notes submitted and reviewed with ESA feedback issues resolved. Viasat has designed a conceptual 1000 satellite LEO constellation that utilises GEO as a commodity service to provide a concurrent LEO/GEO MLS system.

Companies

ViaSat UK
ViaSat UK
https://www.viasat.com/uk
United Kingdom
Home   /  MLSS

MLSS

- Multi-Layered SatCom Systems

Next generation of systems
STATUS | Ongoing
STATUS DATE | 08/05/2023
ACTIVITY CODE | 1B.131
MLSS

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Objectives

The main objectives of the study are to:

  • Define use cases and applications for Multi-Layered SatCom Systems

  • Identify the potential benefits and opportunities that can be enabled by such a system and determine the likely market demand

  • Assess the feasibility, performance, benefits and value such a system would bring to relevant markets

  • Provide a balanced argument for or against a Multi-Layered SatCom System by contrasting the concept against alternate models and methodologies that could achieve the same or similar system level results

  • Investigate system architectures and operational concepts of such satellite systems

  • Detail the space, ground, and user segment architectures and identify techniques and technologies required to implement such satellite systems

  • Define the system architecture most suited for the implementation of the identified mission(s), taking into account commercial, regulatory, governance, and security issues.

  • Conduct detailed system wide modelling, simulation, and analysis of the proposed system 

  • Provide a deep understanding of the impact on link budgets and service capabilities and expose system level bottlenecks

  • Establish a roadmap to address all technical and non-technical issues and define the key developments necessary to bring to fruition such a system

  • Detail an economic model with ROM estimates of the recurring and non-recurring costs of required developments and assess the proposed systems commercial viability and competitiveness.

Challenges

The main challenge is to identify the scenarios where a multi-layered SatCom system would be economically feasible and technically beneficial compared to a single-layer system. Furthermore, routing or switching optimization in highly dynamic, time-variant, multi-layered satellite constellation with inter-layer links is challenging. Other challenges include interference management, network management and control, end-to-end protocols, resource management, hardware integration, roaming and mobility between different operators, QoS guarantees, link level issues in e.g. inter-layer links, and regulatory issues.

System Architecture

The project defines the architecture for a system that implements a multi-layered satellite scenario (see figure above) consisting of globally spread, heterogeneous user terminals capable of connecting to multiple available networks with heterogenous QoS requirements including, e.g., ultra-high availability deterministic broadband connections. The user terminals shall be able to communicate with multiple satellites simultaneously or seamlessly switching between satellites. The satellite layers are tightly integrated with joint orchestration and resource management for achieving the needed efficiency.

Plan

The work is divided into six technical tasks:

  • Task 1: Market and Technology Assessment

  • Task 2: Scenario Trade Off and Selection

  • Task 3: System Requirements and Trade Off Analysis

  • Task 4: System Definition, Modelling, and Simulation

  • Task 5: Economic and Regulatory Factors Analysis

  • Task 6: Gap Analysis, Value Chain Analysis, Technical and Non-Technical Roadmap

Milestone reviews are after completion of Tasks 1 and 2, Task 3, Task 4, and Tasks 5 and 6.

Current Status

Project’s Final Review was held on 20 December 2023.

Companies

VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland (VTT)
VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland (VTT)
http://www.vtt.fi/
Finland
Inmarsat Navigation Ventures Ltd
Inmarsat Navigation Ventures Ltd
http://www.inmarsat.com/
United Kingdom
Fraunhofer FOKUS
Fraunhofer FOKUS
http://www.fokus.fraunhofer.de/en/
Germany