SatNet SpaceSim: A Platform for Performance Analysis of Small Satellites Mega-Constellations

The emergence of small satellites is crucial in the dynamic domain of space networks, enabling cost-effective networks for diverse applications such as monitoring, surveillance, and data rely in space. The upcoming Emirati Interplanetary Mission in 2028 emphasizes the importance of well-designed mega-constellations of small satellites to ensure coverage in remote and challenging terrains. Nevertheless, establishing such localized systems involves substantial financial demands and intricate technical challenges. To tackle these obstacles, this paper introduces SatNet SpaceSim, a simulator developed to analyze the performance of communication links and coverage of small satellite constellations before deployment. This emulation aims to detect and address potential issues proactively, reducing the risk of costly satellite malfunctions. The proposed SatNet SpaceSim offers comprehensive performance analysis through diverse simulations. Moreover, a graphical user interface (GUI) has been devised for SatNet SpaceSim, integrating requisite calculations to assess links based on parameters such as received power and signal-to-noise ratio. Furthermore, we provide extensive simulations for various constellations to demonstrate dynamic orbital maneuverability and coverage analysis, presenting a cost-effective avenue for thorough performance evaluations. Our proposed SatNet SpaceSim platform has the potential to reduce production expenses and improve the efficiency of regional small satellite constellations.