Channel Model and Throughput Analysis for LEO OFDM Satellite Communication System

Abstract

Low earth orbit (LEO) satellite has the advantages of global coverage, low propagation delay and low path losses, etc. Combined with orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) transmission, LEO satellite system can support very high capacity suitable for wideband multimedia traffic. This paper analyzes the channel model and throughput for LEO OFDM satellite communication system. First, several channel models for LEO satellite system are expounded with simulations because channel model is the basis of throughput analysis. Second, the beam model and the signaling model for LEO satellite are introduced. Considering high speed movement of LEO satellite, channel fading and the channel quality information (CQI), link throughput is simulated. Finally, compared with MF-TDMA system, simulation results demonstrate that OFDM system outperforms the former because its feasibility and superiority in throughput.