Cognitive radio scenarios for satellite communications: The CoRaSat approach

This paper presents initial results of the recently kicked-off FP7 ICT STREP project “CoRaSat” (Cognitive Radio for Satellite Communications) [1]. Focus is put on the preliminary identification of the scenarios which are suitable for the applicability of Cognitive Radio technology over Satellite Communications (SatCom). The considered frequency bands include Ka-band, Ku-band, C-band and S-band, where regulatory and coordination constraints exist. An initial mapping of broadband and narrowband SatCom use cases on each identified scenario is also provided. Moreover, several challenges associated to the applicability of Cognitive Radio over SatCom in the identified scenarios are presented, which form the basis of the market/business, regulatory, standardization and technological framework of CoRaSat. Furthermore, ongoing and future work of the CoRaSat project is outlined.