On the Use of Mega Constellation Services in Space: Integrating LEO Platforms Into 6G Non-Terrestrial Networks

Abstract

This paper presents a framework for integratingLow-Earth Orbit (LEO) platforms with Non-Terrestrial Net-works (NTNs) in the emerging 6G communication landscape. Ourwork applies the Mega-Constellation Services in Space (MCSS)paradigm, leveraging LEO mega-constellations’ expansive cover-age and capacity, designed initially for terrestrial devices, to serveplatforms in lower LEO orbits. Results show that this approachovercomes the limitation of sporadic and time-bound satellitecommunication links, a challenge not fully resolved by availableGround Station Networks and Data Relay Systems. We contributethree key elements: (i) a detailed MCSS evaluation frameworkemploying Monte Carlo simulations to assess space user linksand distributions; (ii) a novel Space User Terminal (SUT) designoptimized for MCSS, using different configurations and 5G NewRadio Adaptive Coding and Modulation; (iii) extensive resultsdemonstrating MCSS’s substantial improvement over existingGround Station Networks and Data Relay Systems, motivating itsrole in the upcoming 6G NTNs. The space terminal, incorporatinga multi-system, multi-orbit, and software-defined architecture,can handle Terabit-scale daily data volumes and minute-scalelatencies. It offers a compact, power-efficient solution for properlyintegrating LEO platforms as space internet nodes.