A Beyond-Line-of-Sight Long-Distance Reflection Communication System via LEO Satellites

Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface (RIS) is a promising low-cost technology for enhancing wireless communication coverage. It consists of passive reflecting elements that can adjust the phase shifts of incident signals. RIS is not only deployed on ground structures but also integrated with unmanned aerial vehicles, high-altitude platforms, and satellites. This enables the establishment of virtual line-of-sight (VLoS) links, thereby over-coming obstacles, extending communication range, and reducing long-distance path loss. However, satellite-mounted RIS faces challenges such as increased launch costs and the need for complex dynamic beamforming optimization. Fortunately, the deployment of large plane array antennas is becoming mainstream in low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations. These large arrays, acting as high-reflectivity meta-surfaces, enable reflection communication via satellites. In this paper, we propose a beyond-line-of-sight long-distance reflection communication system using LEO satellites. Specifically, we introduce a new paradigm where LEO satellite serves as a passive reflector to establish a VLoS path between ground stations. We also propose a satellite selection method to choose suitable satellites as passive reflectors and a communication window prediction method to determine optimal communication opportunities. Simulation results validate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed system.