LEO Multilayer Networking: Advancements and Challenges

Communications-integrated satellite-terrestrial networks used for global broadband services have gained a high degree of interest from scientists and industries worldwide. The most convenient structures for such global broadband coverage are Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites that are connected in a constellation. Satellite networks are categorized into single-layer (one-shell) and multilayer (multishell) networks. A single-layer network provides intercommunication between only satellites of the same altitude, whereas multilayer networks enable communications between satellites in different shells. Multilayer networking is more complex but is advocated for its flexibility in providing more sustainable global coverage, seamless handovers, and reliable communications. Seamless handover is a vital feature for satellite networks, particularly for emerging multimedia applications such as video streaming or real-time gaming on mobile and other connected devices. When a user moves from one satellite coverage area to another, or from one satellite shell to another, seamless handover ensures continuity of the service experience without any disruption, delay, or signal loss. Multilayer networking is also a promising solution for ubiquitous global multimedia real-time services such as video conferencing, telemedicine, distance learning, and virtual reality, which are increasingly essential for daily life, business, and emergency response.

This Research Topic aims to address advancements and challenges in LEO multilayer networking. We invite original research articles and review papers that cover innovative LEO networking architecture, protocols, technologies, and applications. Some of the specific areas of interest include, but are not limited to:
• Innovative multilayer networking architectures designed specifically for LEO satellites.
• Comprehensive coverage across multiple layers in LEO environments.
• Development of cross-layer communication protocols tailored for LEO satellite networks.
• Optimization of network performance in LEO satellite networks through advanced network optimization techniques.
• Utilization of Software-defined networking (SDN) concepts for efficient management of LEO satellite networks.
• Seamless communication and networking between satellites within LEO constellations.
• Integration of LEO satellites into existing terrestrial networks.
• Performance evaluation and simulations to assess the effectiveness of novel multilayer networking solutions in LEO.
• Exploration of diverse applications and use cases of LEO multilayer networking, such as Internet-of-Things (IoT), Earth observation, and disaster response.
• Security considerations and techniques for LEO satellites networks

This Research Topic seeks to bring together researchers, scientists, and industry experts to share their latest research and development efforts on LEO multilayer networking. We encourage contributions that explore new concepts and solutions that can address the challenges and opportunities in this field.

Keywords: Communications-integrated, satellite-terrestrial networks, global broadband services, low Earth orbit satellites, constellation, single layer networks, multilayer networks, sustainable global coverage, seamless handovers, reliable communications

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.