Cloud Free LOS Probability Estimation for MEO Optical Satellite Systems and Optical Satellite Network Dimensioning

Optical satellite networks have been recently proposed as an alternative solution of backhaul satellite networks. In this paper, simple algorithms for the optimum selection of the locations of optical ground stations (OGSs) in a Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) optical satellite system are presented. The objective is to satisfy an availability threshold for each month and for each orbital position of the MEO satellite. The algorithms take into account the monthly variability of cloud coverage, take advantage of locations in different hemispheres and select OGSs which are within the visibility area of the satellite for longer time. Additionally, an engineering methodology for the estimation of single and joint CFLOS statistics for MEO satellite communication systems based on Integrated Liquid Water Content (ILWC) monthly statistical parameters is presented. Finally, using the proposed methodologies, useful numerical results are presented.