While potential benefits of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) for flexible network management and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) for virtual functions on dedicated hardware have been extensively investigated in terrestrial wireless networks, their applications to satellite networks have, however, not been adequately explored for flexible function managment. In this topic, SDN and NFV are being advocated for the realization of different types of incumbent tasks; e.g., satellite communications, space domain awareness, satellite navigation and timing, etc. while subject to network topology dynamisms, inter-satellite link connectivity, etc. Future development efforts in software-defined frameworks for space and terrestrial satellite communications to achieve flexible management should consider a vision of virtualized resource management systems that are supported by adaptive synthesis and orchestration of virtualized network functions (VNFs) on each satellite subject to operational constraints on flows, network resources, VNFs, and connectivity between flows and VNFs. Nevertheless, sustainable impact assessments of NFV degrees to the overall network performance are in need for potential enhancements in task completion and network resource utilization versus the number of VNF enabled satellites with different computing and communication capabilities.

References:

 1. C. Ge, et. al., "QoE-Assured Live Streaming via Satellite Backhaul in 5G Networks," IEEE Transactions on Broadcasting, vol. 65, no. 2, pp. 381-391, 2019

key words

Software-Defined Networking; Network Function Virtualization; Satellite Networks; Virtualized Network Function; Orchestration; Satellite Navigation and Timing; Task Completion; Network Resource Utilization; Network Function Virtualization Degrees

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants