The objective of the Committee on Space-Air-Ground-Water Integrated Communication Systems is to support and promote research among the members of the IEEE VTS community in this field.

This committee is dedicated to serving IEEE VTS members interested in the emerging field of Space-Air-Ground-Water Integrated Communication Systems. The research topics on SAGW Integrated Communication Systems include space–air–ground-water communication networks, space–air–ground-water green communication, satellite communication, unmanned aerial vehicle communication, ground communication, underwater sensor networks and especially the cooperation and integration among them.

Interested in joining the Committee on Space-Air-Ground-Water Integrated Communication Systems? Submit this form.

Past Events

February 2024

Talk Title: LEO Satellite vs. Cellular Networks: Exploring the Potential for Synergistic Integration
Speaker: Xumiao Zhang, University of Michigan, U.S.
Date: Thursday, February 29th, 2024

Abstract: Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) satellite networks, such as Starlink, are transforming global network connectivity by bringing Internet access to remote and underserved areas. However, the current coverage and performance of the LEO satellite network service compared with those of cellular networks are under-explored. In this work, we present a measurement study of the Starlink LEO satellite network in comparison with cellular networks, aiming to uncover the potential for synergistic integration. Through a large-scale data collection campaign and in-depth analysis, we (1) identify the performance characteristics of two Starlink configurations, (2) evaluate the coverage of the current Starlink deployment compared to major cellular carriers, and (3) investigate the potential benefits of enabling multipath using both LEO satellite and cellular networks.

Brief Bio: Xumiao Zhang is a final-year PhD student at the University of Michigan. His research strives to develop systems and networking support for characterizing and improving next-generation network infrastructures (e.g., 4G/5G networks, LEO satellite networks, QUIC transport protocol) and applications (e.g., connected and autonomous vehicles). Currently, he is also a research intern at Alibaba Cloud U.S. focusing on bringing AI to network infrastructure.

JANUARY 2024

Talk Title: Future Satellite Communications for 5G/6G
Speaker: Zhili Sun, University of Surrey, UK
Organizer: IEEE VTS SAGW
Date: Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Abstract: This talk provides an introduction to the development of mobile communications, particularly the introduction of satellite communications into the 5th Generation (5G) since 2020 and into 6G for 2030. It will start with reviewing the development of mobile communication systems from 1G to 5G in the context of international standardization activities, then focus on the 5G in the framework of ITU-R IMT-2020 development and vision and 6G in ITU-T Network 2030, and further development of satellite communications and networks for the 5G and 6G in the framework NTN, non-terrestrial network, including satellites, HAP/LAP, and UAV. Key technologies and applications will be identified and directions for further research highlighted for future satellite communications for 5G/6G and beyond.

Brief Bio: Prof. Zhili Sun is a Chair Professor and Director of PhD Programme at the 5G/6G Innovation Center (5GIC & 6GIC), Institute of Communication Systems (ICS). He has led many major R&D projects on satellite communication networks, published extensively including three books, and actively participated in and contributed to ITU-T and ETSI's works as well as IEEE future networks on satellite 5G/6G development and research on Mega Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation networks and future satellite network roadmap. He has served as an Editorial Board member for several international journals related to satellite communications, security and space technology e.g., Nature - Scientific Report on Space Technology, International Journal of Satellite Communications and Networking.

December 2023

IEEE TCBD/SAGW joint seminar: Large Models and Future Communications Networks
Organizer: IEEE VTS SAGW, IEEE ComSoc TCBD
Date: Wednesday, December 20, 2023
Program: Large Models and Future Communications Networks

November 2023

Talk Title: Making Sense of Constellations: Methodologies for Understanding Starlink's Scheduling Algorithms
Speaker: Hammas Bin Tanveer, University of Iowa, IA, USA
Date: Monday, November 27, 2023

Abstract: Starlink’s constellation is currently the largest LEO WAN and has seen considerable interest from the research community. In this talk, we use high-frequency and high-fidelity measurements to uncover evidence of hierarchical traffic controllers in Starlink — a global controller which allocates satellites to terminals and an on-satellite controller that schedules transmission of user flows. We then devise a novel approach for identifying how satellites are allocated to user terminals. Using data gathered with this approach, we measure the characteristics of the global controller and identify the factors that influence the allocation of satellites to terminals. Finally, we use this data to build a model which approximates Starlink’s global scheduler. Our model is able to predict the characteristics of the satellite allocated to a terminal at a specific location and time with reasonably high accuracy and at a rate significantly higher than baseline.

Brief Bio: Hammas Bin Tanveer is a 5th year PhD student at The University of Iowa. He is currently also a visiting researcher at Center for Applied Internet Data Analysis (CAIDA) and was previously an Open Technology Fund's Senior Information Controls Fellow at The University of Michigan. His primary research includes better understanding and securing next-generation networking technologies, specifically IPv6 and Starlink.

October 2023

Talk Title: Satellite broadband for the masses: Are we there yet?
Speaker: Mike Puchol
Date: Monday, October 2

Abstract: This talk will guide the audience through the learnings about running an ISP in Africa and how these experiences shape the perspectives on LEO constellations and their roles in reaching underserved and unconnected populations. Mike will dive into the issues impacting LEO constellations and compare them with other approaches of providing internet connectivity, including some fundamental economic factors.

Brief Bio: Mike Puchol is a technical program manager at X (formerly known as Google X), the moonshot factory. Previously, he was the co-founder and CTO at Poa Internet, a WISP providing low-cost broadband internet to underprivileged communities in Kenya. Trained as a mechanical and aeronautical engineer, he proceeded to learn too little about too many things, becoming a technologist and entrepreneur in a wide range of fields. He is interested in how technology, science, engineering, and business mix together, with a particular focus on wireless communications as the common thread.