Bridging Maritime Communication Gaps: The Role of LEO Satellites in Expanding Global Connectivity

ABSTRACT Direct device -to-device is the latest and potentially the biggest opportunity in the telecom business as the gap between satellite and ground communication is narrowing. Respectively, the telecom companies and mobile network operators are interested in increasing the coverage of their telecom networks which will boost the quality of services and will increase the revenues as well. In this regard, Low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellite mega-constellations, such as SpaceX Starlink, are under fast deployments and promise broadband Internet to remote areas that terrestrial networks cannot reach. This paper will investigate the opportunities and challenges facing the LEO mega-constellation and satellite networks in the maritime industry.