Space-O-RAN: Enabling Intelligent, Open, and Interoperable Non Terrestrial Networks in 6G

TL;DR

This paper presents Space-O-RAN, a novel distributed control architecture for satellite networks that enables real-time, autonomous, and scalable management by extending Open RAN principles into space, addressing current limitations in adaptability and efficiency.

Contribution

It introduces a hierarchical, closed-loop control framework with onboard lightweight applications and low-latency inter-satellite links, facilitating autonomous satellite network operations and dynamic interface mapping.

Findings

Simulations validate latency bounds for autonomous satellite RAN operations.

The architecture demonstrates scalability and feasibility for 6G satellite networks.

Enables real-time scheduling and beam steering without ground access.

Abstract

Satellite networks are rapidly evolving, yet most \glspl{ntn} remain isolated from terrestrial orchestration frameworks. Their control architectures are typically monolithic and static, limiting their adaptability to dynamic traffic, topology changes, and mission requirements. These constraints lead to inefficient spectrum use and underutilized network capacity. Although \gls{ai} promises automation, its deployment in orbit is limited by computing, energy, and connectivity limitations. This paper introduces Space-O-RAN, a distributed control architecture that extends Open RAN principles into satellite constellations through hierarchical, closed-loop control. Lightweight \glspl{dapp} operate onboard satellites, enabling real-time functions like scheduling and beam steering without relying on persistent ground access. Cluster-level coordination is managed via \glspl{spaceric}, which leverage low-latency \glspl{isl} for autonomous decisions in orbit. Strategic tasks, including AI training and policy updates, are transferred to terrestrial platforms \glspl{smo} using digital twins and feeder links. A key enabler is the dynamic mapping of the O-RAN interfaces to satellite links, supporting adaptive signaling under varying conditions. Simulations using the Starlink topology validate the latency bounds that inform this architectural split, demonstrating both feasibility and scalability for autonomous satellite RAN operations.