Starlink Ku-Band Downlink Based Ambient Backscatter Communication

With the development of the Starlink network, satellite communication has become a primary means of Internet access in remote areas. Leveraging the ubiquitous downlink from Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) satellites and the portability of ground stations, this paper explores the feasibility of using Starlink downlink signals as an illuminating signal for Ambient Backscatter Communication (AmBC). We propose an AmBC system that operates in the Ku-band, utilizing Starlink downlink signals. Furthermore, we analyze the impact factors for AmBC performance and derive its analytical expression. Numerical simulation results demonstrate that the AmBC based on the Starlink downlink achieves a Bit Error Rate (BER) on the order of 10–2, highlighting its potential for practical applications.