Optimizing the Edge Computing System of a LEO Satellite Constellation

In recent times, numerous large constellations of broadband communication satellites in Low-Earth orbit have been deployed or are being planned, such as Starlink, Telesat, and OneWeb. These constellations are intended to provide internet access across the globe. They possess advantageous traits including global coverage, high bandwidth, strong signal reception on Earth’s surface, predictable orbital paths, network density, and resilience. Consequently, they are considered promising space-based transmitters for various applications, as indicated by analyses conducted. Additionally, these constellations consist of multiple circular orbital planes at different altitudes, each with a varying number of satellites tasked with delivering internet services to users.This paper presents theoretical findings concerning the establishment of connectivity between satellites within the Starlink constellation and ground stations located across the European continent. The study aims to determine the minimum number of edge servers required for comprehensive connectivity throughout Europe, along with identifying optimal edge server deployment locations. Connectivity is established while considering the minimum number of selected ground stations, with efforts made to minimize costs and reduce delay by selecting the nearest available ground stations.