A study on low-latency wireless sensing in time-critical satellite applications

The utilization of wireless sensor networks in satellite applications is promising, but at the same time a challenging task due to the stringent requirements. Especially time-critical subsystems, like the attitude and orbit control system (AOCS), require a low-latency and robust communication within its sensors and actuators network. In this paper, we propose a novel approach for wireless intra-satellite communication, which is based on the recently introduced IEEE 802.15.4e with its low-latency deterministic network (LLDN) mode utilizing IEEE 802.15.4a impulse radio - ultra wideband (IR-UWB). The analysis shows that it is able to fulfil the strict timing requirements in order to accomplish a deterministic communication with a latency of 10 ms and less in a typical AOCS configuration.