Authors
Xingqin Lin, Stefano Cioni, Gilles Charbit, Nicolas Chuberre, Sven Hellsten, Jean-Francois Boutillon
Publication date
2021/12
Journal
IEEE Communications Magazine
Volume
59
Issue
12
Pages
36-42
Publisher
IEEE
Description
Offering space-based Internet services with mega-constellations of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites is a promising solution to connecting the unconnected. It can complement the coverage of terrestrial networks to help bridge the digital divide. However, there are challenges from operational obstacles to technical hurdles facing the development of LEO satellite access. This article provides an overview of the state of the art in LEO satellite access, including the evolution of LEO satellite constellations and capabilities, critical technical challenges and solutions, standardization aspects from 5G evolution to 6G, and business considerations. We also identify several areas for future exploration to realize tight integration of LEO satellite access with terrestrial networks in 6G.
Total citations
20212022202320243267042
Scholar articles
X Lin, S Cioni, G Charbit, N Chuberre, S Hellsten… - IEEE Communications Magazine, 2021