Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

Satellite communications amplify terrestrial networks with globally accessible, cost-effective Internet of Things services. Long-range low-power technologies like NB-IoT and LoRa facilitate direct-to-satellite IoT (DtS-IoT) connectivity with Low-Earth Orbit nano and small satellites. The integration of 5G and non-terrestrial networks promotes global mobile satellite services and massive IoT deployments. DtS-IoT will provide connectivity in near-Earth and deep-space contexts. However, next-generation space communications present challenges to achieve autonomous, intelligent, self-organized, and resilient space networks. Near-Earth IoT networks often face disruptions from orbital dynamics and limited power supplies. Ground segments deal with the unfair allocation of resources amid densely populated scenarios, and rigid power regulations. Similarly, deep-space deployments face hostile conditions and power resource limitations. While the implementation of autonomic and cognitive networking facilitates more efficient space network operations, current cognitive and autonomic solutions need to address the unique challenges inherent to the constellations of resource-constrained satellites and to scale in mega-constellation scenarios. Therefore, this research program introduces the Multi-Planetary Cognitive DtS-IoT System. Our system will define a cohesive framework with cognitive, autonomic, and sustainable capabilities that serve low-power and resource-constrained deployments in near-Earth and deep-space scenarios. Near-Earth DtS-IoT will address global connectivity challenges across various sectors: maritime, agriculture, and environment, among others. Meanwhile, deep-space DtS-IoT will transform space exploration as it expands to the Moon, Mars, and other celestial objects in upcoming missions. The reduction of costs in data collection will facilitate large-scale measurement campaigns on Earth and space, monitor spacecraft components, and enhance the understanding of our planet and outer space. To address the challenges of disruption-prone communications and extreme deep-space conditions, we propose cognitive and autonomic designs while being resource-aware simultaneously. Initially, we will focus on introducing intelligent, self-managed, and resource-efficient components in near-Earth IoT networking protocols. Subsequently, we will enlarge our focus to include cognitive, autonomic, and sustainable components in deep-space IoT. Our research program tackles the digital divide in Canada while fostering the advancement of space technologies to enhance space domain awareness, both domestically and globally. This progress will stem from active collaborations with leading researchers and industry players. Furthermore, we will train HQP capable of propelling Space Internet research and the transferring of technology into the blooming satellite and IoT industry.