Measuring a Low-Earth-Orbit Satellite Network

TL;DR

This paper presents a measurement campaign of Starlink's LEO satellite network, revealing insights into its structure and discussing future research challenges for integrated space-air-ground-aqua networks in 6G systems.

Contribution

It provides new empirical data and analysis of Starlink's network architecture, addressing knowledge gaps in LEO satellite network operations.

Findings

Detailed characterization of Starlink's satellite access networks

Insights into gateway and backbone structures

Identification of research challenges for integrated networks

Abstract

Starlink and alike have attracted a lot of attention recently, however, the inner working of these low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellite networks is still largely unknown. This paper presents an ongoing measurement campaign focusing on Starlink, including its satellite access networks, gateway and point-of-presence structures, and backbone and Internet connections, revealing insights applicable to other LEO satellite providers. It also highlights the challenges and research opportunities of the integrated space-air-ground-aqua network envisioned by 6G mobile communication systems, and calls for a concerted community effort from practical and experimentation aspects.