Architectural Framework and Feasibility of Internet of Things-Driven Mars Exploration via Satellite Constellations

• DOI: 10.3390/electronics13071289
• Publication Date: 2024-03-31T17:28:00Z
• Authors: Oscar Ledesma; Paula Lamo; Juan A. Fraire; María Ruiz; Miguel A. Sánchez
• Keywords: IoT; [SPI] Engineering Sciences [physics]; satellite; Mars; feasibility study; [INFO] Computer Science [cs]; LoRa; 01 natural sciences; [SPI]Engineering Sciences [physics]; IoT LoRa Mars satellite NewSpace framework feasibility study; framework; NewSpace; [INFO]Computer Science [cs]; 0105 earth and related environmental sciences

This study outlines a technical framework for Internet of Things (IoT) communications on Mars, leveraging Long Range (LoRa) technology to connect Martian surface sensors and orbiting satellites. The designed architecture adapts terrestrial satellite constellation models environments the specific needs interplanetary communication with Earth. It incorporates multiple layers, including IoT nodes, linkage, configuration, Earth communication, emphasizing potential applications. analysis covers four critical feasibility aspects: maximum range between nodes satellites, constellation’s message processing capacity determine node volume support, frequency visibility based arrangement, data transmission capabilities LoRa-based devices. findings affirm LoRa’s suitability demonstrating extensive coverage, sufficient anticipated volumes, effective in challenging conditions. establishes framework’s viability advancing Mars exploration space contexts.