Auction-based Operation in LEO Satellite Systems for High-Efficiency Communications

We propose an auction-based mechanism to improve the efficiency of low earth orbit satellite communication systems. The mechanism allows the ground stations to bid for downlink resources such as spectrum, satellite links, or radios, without the need to send channel status back to satellites. Simulation and experimental results show that this mechanism improves total channel capacity by dynamically leveraging the diversity among satellite-station links; reduces uplink overhead by providing lightweight and effective channel status feedback; simplifies computational complexity and improves scalability; and also provides implicit resource information stemming from the auction dynamics. This new operation mechanism provides a feasible solution for low earth orbit satellites which are sensitive to power consumption and overheating.