Preliminary Performance Evaluation of a Satellite-to-HAP Communication Link

The emergence of Fifth-Generation (5G) communication networks has brought forth unprecedented connectivity with ultra-low latency, high data rates, and pervasive coverage. However, meeting the increasing demands of applications for seamless and high-quality communication, especially in rural areas, requires exploring innovative solutions that expand 5G beyond traditional terrestrial networks. Within the context of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs), two promising technologies with vast potential are High Altitude Platforms (HAPs) and satellites. The combination of these two platforms is able to provide wide coverage and reliable communication in remote and inaccessible areas, and/or where terrestrial infrastructure is unavailable. This study evaluates the performance of the communication link between a Geostationary Equatorial Orbit (GEO) satellite and a HAP using the Internet of Drones Simulator (IoD-Sim), implemented in ns-3 and incorporating the 3GPP TR 38.811 channel model. The code base of IoD-Sim is extended to simulate HAPs, accounting for the Earth’s curvature in various geographic coordinate systems, and considering realistic mobility patterns. A simulation campaign is conducted to evaluate the GEO-to-HAP communication link in terms of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) in two different scenarios, considering the mobility of the HAP, and as a function of the frequency and the distance.