Abstract
Low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations are rapidly becoming essential
enablers of next-generation wireless systems, offering global broadband access,
high-precision localization, and reliable sensing beyond terrestrial coverage.
However, the inherent limitations of individual LEO satellites, including
restricted power, limited antenna aperture, and constrained onboard processing,
hinder their ability to meet the growing demands of 6G applications. To address
these challenges, this article introduces the concept of distributed integrated
sensing, localization, and communication (DISLAC) over LEO constellations,
inspired by distributed multiple input multiple output architectures. By
enabling inter-satellite cooperation through inter-satellite links, DISLAC can
substantially improve throughput, positioning accuracy, and sensing robustness.
We present illustrative case studies that quantify these benefits and analyze
key system-level considerations, including synchronization, antenna
reconfigurability, and ISL design. The article concludes by outlining open
research directions to advance the practical deployment of DISLAC in future
non-terrestrial networks.
Abstract
Earth observation (EO) satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) are collecting
vast amounts of data, which are invaluable for applications such as monitoring
forest fires. However, data downloading from EO satellites faces significant
challenges due to the limited number of ground stations and the brief
communication windows with them. Conversely, emerging LEO constellations like
Starlink have enabled continuous connectivity and revolutionized access for
ordinary users globally, who can connect via a simple satellite dish. In this
paper, we study the feasibility of supporting EO satellites with Starlink
satellite infrastructure and introduce a novel data delivery system, designated
as "Starlink Space User" (SSU), for relaying data from observation satellites.
SSU treats EO satellites as space users of Starlink, facilitating efficient
data transfer to Earth. At the core of SSU is a novel class of algorithms
designed for link and PoP selection, as well as system scheduling optimization,
that operate effectively atop Starlink's proprietary infrastructure. We assess
the performance of SSU using trace-driven simulations alongside real-world
Starlink performance measurements. Our results demonstrate that the proposed
Starlink-aided design can significantly reduce the median backlog (data not
delivered) per satellite.