WLAN for Earth Observation Satellite Formations in LEO

This paper is concerned with adapting the IEEE 802.11 protocol for inter-satellite links in distributed satellite formations for rapid response and disaster monitoring from low Earth orbit. Key optimisation approaches such as tuning of the IEEE 802.11 physical layer parameters and enhancing the data link layer are described. Integration of smart antennas with the medium access control protocol is also considered aiming at increasing the capacity and throughput while minimizing interference and collision in close proximity inter-satellite links. Finally, simulation results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approaches for satellite formations.