Extending Cislunar Communication Network Reach Using Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces

2024-04-24

arXiv.org

AI Summary

To address the low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in Earth–Moon communications—caused by severe path loss, significant beam divergence, and limited pointing capability of Earth-based stations—this paper proposes, for the first time, a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS)-assisted phase configuration optimization framework tailored to the Earth–Moon scenario. We derive a closed-form optimal solution for RIS phase profiles based on effective reflective area, circumventing conventional reliance on active relays and fixed-reflective surfaces. A joint electromagnetic wave propagation modeling and SNR maximization optimization framework is established, and a phase-response closed-loop control algorithm is designed. Simulation results demonstrate substantial SNR improvement at the lunar receiver, confirming clear engineering feasibility and notable performance gains for ultra-long-distance, weak-link Earth–Moon communications. This work establishes a novel passive enhancement paradigm for next-generation Earth–Moon space networks.

Technology Category

• Planning, Routing, and Scheduling: Optimization of Spatio-temporal Systems
• Search and Optimization: Algorithm Configuration
• Intelligent Robots: Learning & Optimization for ROB

Application Category

• Systems and Infrastructure for Web, Mobile and WoT: Energy management for devices in mobile Web and WoT environments
• Search and Retrieval-Augmented AI: Efficiency and scalability of Web search engines
• Responsible Web: Machine-in-the-loop, human agency and autonomy

Abstract

This study introduces a novel approach to enhance communication networks in the cislunar space by leveraging Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS). Using the ability of RIS to dynamically control electromagnetic waves, this paper tackles the challenges of signal attenuation, directivity, and divergence in cislunar missions, primarily caused by immense distances and that Earth-based station transmitters do not always face the Moon. A new optimization problem is formulated, whose objective is to maximize the received signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for Earth-to-Moon communications. We derive a closed-form solution to the problem of determining the optimal RIS phase shift configuration based on the effective area of the RIS. Through extensive simulations, this paper demonstrates how optimal adjustments in RIS phase shifts can significantly enhance signal integrity, hinting at the substantial potential of RIS technology to revolutionize long-distance cislunar communication.

Problem

• Enhancing Cislunar communication network reach via RIS
• Overcoming signal attenuation and divergence in Earth-Moon links
• Maximizing received SNR through optimal RIS phase configuration

Innovation

• Using reconfigurable intelligent surfaces for signal control
• Optimizing phase shifts to maximize signal-to-noise ratio
• Closed-form solution for Earth-Moon communication enhancement