Optimization of Inter-Cubesat Communication Links
Abstract
Cubesat constellations may become the next generation of communication backbone architecture to provide future worldwide communication services. In this thesis, we investigate the feasibility of deploying Cubesat constellations with intersatellite links (ISL) for the delivery of continuous global communication. Cubesat constellation designs for various mission scenarios are proposed and verified using a simulation toolkit commonly used by space engineers. Link optimization to improve the overall theoretical data rate is also discussed. The results obtained affirm that a Cubesat constellation at an orbital height of 450 km can achieve a data rate of 11.46 kbps and requires the least number of satellites in the constellation. We ascertained that using ISL as the communication backbone in a network architecture, complete with space and globally distributed ground nodes, is achievable. In the near future, there is a high potential for the implementation of ISL with optical communication links, whereby there is assurance of a significantly higher data rate and lower power requirements.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1185828
Entities
People
- Jianwen Lin
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School