Optical Multi User Service (OPTIMUS): Connecting Optical Ground Stations and Satellite Operators with Data management as a Service

Abstract

Optical communication offers numerous advantages for ground-to-satellite data transfer links, including improved transmission rates and enhanced security. However, the current small number of Optical Ground Stations (OGS) and the strong dependence on atmospheric conditions complicate a good coverage of reliable link availability. OPTIMUS is an ESA-funded project that provides an "Optical Ground Station as a Service" (OGSaaS) testbed to build a distributed network of OGSs, to ensure interoperability regardless of local weather conditions. This paper addresses the development of a platform that both OGS and satellite operators can connect to optimize link scheduling with realtime weather data and satellite pass predictions. Using a Delay Tolerant Network (DTN) for data distribution, we facilitate the use of existing OGSs, independent of network resilience and transmission rate, and allow for the dynamic growth of an OGS network. By combining existing and simulated OGSs, we demonstrate the ability of the framework to scale, to adapt to dynamic weather conditions, and to schedule the optimal use of OGSs. This research demonstrates the need for innovative technology in the ground sector to further advance optical communication.