Future high-speed satellite communication links

Complementary to that, telecommunication satellites have been initially deployed for TV broadcasting applications, but more recently they also to support other communication services. One example is to replace some of the expensive and limited sub-marine optical cables via high-throughput satellite links. Another approach builds on the recent explosion of LEO satellite fleets, offering direct user connectivity via a dense satellite network. Finally, future evolutions towards 6G look more and more at non-terrestrial networks (NTN) and the synergies they can have with the terrestrial networks.

In this PhD, we propose to design point-to-point high-throughput links between ground and satellite or between two satellites. In particular, the candidate will investigate how to design and optimize systems for those unique applications, based on the following:

• Investigate propagation aspects in the different relevant frequency bands, especially between ground and satellites, and assess the corresponding link budget feasibility

• Tackle mobility aspects and related challenges (channel estimation, beam tracking, synchronization, ...)

• Propose and dimension architectures at both sides of the link, including transceiver front-ends and power amplifiers building on imec's technology offering

• Develop relevant waveforms and signal processing transmit/receive algorithms

• Investigate hardware limitations such as analog non-idealities and develop corresponding digital compensation solutions where relevant

To support this research, you will develop a detailed simulation environment in Matlab and/or Python. It will be used to evaluate the system performance and optimize the different building blocks of the system. Importantly, it will need the development of a specific channel model for satellite propagation as well as models of transmitter/receiver components.

As a PhD student, you will be part of a large IMEC team working on the research, implementation and prototyping of future communications systems composed of experts in digital, analog and mm-wave design, wireless communication systems, signal processing and machine learning, channel measurements and modelling. This is a unique opportunity to develop innovative, multi-disciplinary technology and shape future wireless networks. You will publish your research in top-level journals and conferences.