Inter-Satellite Communication for LEO CubeSat Network: QoS Parameters and Feasibility of Massive MIMO

Abstract

This paper evaluates inter-satellite communication for a low earth orbit CubeSat network. This paper consists of two parts: determination and estimation of quality of service (QoS) parameters and evaluation of the feasibility of a Massive Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) system for inter-satellite links. CubeSats are low-cost and small satellites that were initially designed by students during the educational process but are now launched for conducting space research and for commercial use. Recently, some companies and research studies promoted CubeSats to build a wireless communication networks for different proposes, such as earth observation, weather forecasting, providing access to the internet, internet of things and machine to machine services. The main distinguishing features of a CubeSat network include low-cost and fast deployment with a consequent advantage: the possibility to build a large network (hundreds of spacecraft) with limited resources. However, due to the limited size and function of CubeSats, the feasibility of a CubeSat network with inter-satellite links is debatable. In this paper, we investigate the QoS parameters for an inter-satellite link and factors affecting it. The theoretical design with a constructive drawing of massive MIMO has been made. The possibility and time duration of inter-satellite communication has been calculated for three different cases using real data and including Massive MIMO. The simulation of orbit movements for groups of CubeSats has been made. The correlation between relative positions of satellites in orbits, parameters of communication channels and the QoS was determined. The feasibility of massive MIMO for CubeSat communications has been estimated. Based on simulation results, suggestions and possible technical and non-technical solutions were highlighted together with future studies and simulations.