William Edmonson | Searcharxiv

arXiv2018

Inter-Satellite Communication System based on Visible Light

Future space missions will be driven by factors such as the need for reduced cost of spacecraft without diminished performance, new services and capabilities including reconfigurability, autonomous operations, target observation with improved resolution and servicing (or proximity) operations. Small satellites, deployed as a sensor network in space, can through inter-satellite communication (ISC) enable the realization of these future goals. Developing the communication subsystem that can facilitate ISC within this distributed network of small satellites require a complex range of design trade-offs. For small satellites, the general design parameters that are to be optimized for ISC are size, mass, and power, as well as cost (SMaP-C). Novel and efficient design techniques for implementing the communication subsystem are crucial for building multiple small satellite networks with capability for achieving significant data-rates along the inter-satellite links (ISLs). In this paper, we propose an alternative approach to RF and laser ISLs for ISC among small satellites deployed as a sensor network in low Earth orbit (LEO). For short to medium range ISLs, we present an LED-based visible light communication (VLC) system that addresses the SMaP constraints, including capability for achieving significant data rates. Our research is focused on the development of the physical layer for pico-/nano class of satellites with prime consideration for the impact of solar background illumination on link performance. We develop an analytical model of the inter-satellite link (ISL) in MATLAB and evaluate its feasibility and performance for different intensity modulation and direct detection (IM/DD) schemes.

eess.SP↗

arXiv2016

Survey of Inter-satellite Communication for Small Satellite Systems: Physical Layer to Network Layer View

Small satellite systems enable whole new class of missions for navigation, communications, remote sensing and scientific research for both civilian and military purposes. As individual spacecraft are limited by the size, mass and power constraints, mass-produced small satellites in large constellations or clusters could be useful in many science missions such as gravity mapping, tracking of forest fires, finding water resources, etc. Constellation of satellites provide improved spatial and temporal resolution of the target. Small satellite constellations contribute innovative applications by replacing a single asset with several very capable spacecraft which opens the door to new applications. With increasing levels of autonomy, there will be a need for remote communication networks to enable communication between spacecraft. These space based networks will need to configure and maintain dynamic routes, manage intermediate nodes, and reconfigure themselves to achieve mission objectives. Hence, inter-satellite communication is a key aspect when satellites fly in formation. In this paper, we present the various researches being conducted in the small satellite community for implementing inter-satellite communications based on the Open System Interconnection (OSI) model. This paper also reviews the various design parameters applicable to the first three layers of the OSI model, i.e., physical, data link and network layer. Based on the survey, we also present a comprehensive list of design parameters useful for achieving inter-satellite communications for multiple small satellite missions. Specific topics include proposed solutions for some of the challenges faced by small satellite systems, enabling operations using a network of small satellites, and some examples of small satellite missions involving formation flying aspects.

cs.NI↗