From mega constellations to multi-orbit networks operating across LEO, MEO and HEO, as well as very high-throughput and software-defined satellites with splitable and steerable beams that can be configurable on the fly, the transformation that has already taken place in-orbit and that is continuing to take place, is dramatic. These new technologies are enabling satcom to deliver low-latency, high-performance connectivity at scale, to anywhere, making it invaluable in the next-gen network of networks where satellite and terrestrial systems will integrate seamlessly for ubiquitous and seamless connectivity.
Yet, to enable the new applications made possible by innovations in the space sector and for satcom to cement itself as a key component of the world’s next gen communication network, the ground segment must adapt, and fast.
This means shifting from fixed hardware-based ground infrastructure to a more flexible and scalable ground system than can support the dynamic software-defined technologies that we’re increasingly seeing in the space segment. To achieve this, the ground segment needs to be virtualised and digitised as much as possible by moving from physical hardware to software. This will enable ground station functions to be hosted and managed in the cloud, which will improve operational efficiency, enhance flexibility and scalability, and enable remote access and control.
Roadblocks to reinventing the ground
Reinventing the ground segment in this way is an incredibly complex undertaking, not least because the transformation from hardware to software-based infrastructure will impact every part of the satellite ecosystem. Ground segment technology vendors, teleport and gateways operators and satellite service providers will all need to ensure that their part of the chain is fulfilling the needs of a virtualised network.
This industry wide shift from hardware-based ground infrastructure to software, is itself a mammoth undertaking. And of course, an added complication comes because not all components of the ground segment can be virtualised, for example the antennas themselves, and also frequency converters and amplifiers. For these components to directly connect to virtualised and cloud infrastructure, RF signals need to be converted to digital, and the technology used to do this needs to be interoperable with satellite networks and cloud services.
Standardisation is a critical requirement here because it ensures consistency in signal handling and system design, facilitating easier integration and compatibility between different components and systems. Yet while the Digital Intermediate Frequency Operability (DIFI) consortium is making great strides in developing a standard to define how digital IF/RF signals should be processed and transmitted, it remains a complicated and lengthy process, and we’re not quite there yet.
Flat Panel Antennas (FPAs) are another thorny issue in the reinvention of the ground segment. While the technology’s capabilities make it a critical enabler for the next iteration of satcom, the lack of minimum performance standards is creating a number of challenges for the industry, specifically around quality/performance and interference. Work to address this complex challenge has begun, which the Satcoms Innovation Group (SIG) is heavily involved in, and some progress has been made, however the industry is unfortunately still far from a resolution.
Rethinking the ground segment is a complex task and will only be achievable through perseverance and industry wide collaboration. Let’s not forget that the satellite industry has been relatively static for a long time so fundamentally changing its mode of operation is not going to happen overnight.
SIG Tech Forum
Recognising how critical these issues currently are for the industry, SIG is kicking off its relaunched Tech Forum series on 16th July with a Forum discussion on the evolution of the satcom industry and a focus on what the ground segment is already doing and what it needs to do to keep up and support the transition.
While the topic of the evolving ground segment is well discussed and something that comes up regularly in industry webinars and podcasts, what makes the SIG Tech Forums different is that it brings together industry experts from across satcom, all in one (virtual) room, concentrating all that direct experience and expertise in one place. SIG members get the opportunity to bring their valuable insights, share frustrations, and bring questions and potential solutions.
SIG Tech Forums are a unique opportunity for SIG members to engage with the rest of the SIG membership about current topics, such as the evolution of the ground segment. The sessions are member-only open discussions that give all members the opportunity to engage with the board and other members, and unlike SIG Technical Workshops which are in-person events held at different locations across the world, SIG Tech Forums are virtual events, so no travelling is required.
The SIG Tech Forum, ‘Can the ground segment keep up?’ is taking place on Wednesday 16th July from 3-4pm BST. It is the first in a series of Tech Forums taking place throughout the rest of the year.
For more information and to become a member of SIG, visit the SIG website. Register for the event here.