Internet of Satellites (IoS) for Intelligent Satellite Cluster: Applications, Methods, and Challenges

Engineering ›› 2025, Vol. 54 ›› Issue (11) : 155 -170. DOI: 10.1016/j.eng.2025.08.024

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Received	Accepted	Published
2024-11-24	2025-08-08	2025-08-26
Issue Date	Revised Date
2025-08-26	2025-07-31

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Abstract

The integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and cloud computing is accelerating the development of intelligent and autonomous satellite systems. However, limitations in onboard sensing, computing, storage, and energy resources continue to constrain the intelligent functionalities of individual satellites. Currently, most studies focus on either satellite intelligence or satellite networking, while systematic studies on their integration remain scarce. To address this gap, this paper introduces the concept of an intelligent satellite cluster system, which leverages satellite networks to enable collaborative intelligence among satellites, thereby enhancing the overall system intelligence. After summarizing the typical use cases of the intelligent satellite cluster system, we analyze the corresponding demands on network capabilities. Based on these demands, we propose the concept of the Internet of satellites (IoS) tailored to support the intelligent satellite cluster system. Specifically, we design both the logical and physical architectures of IoS and elaborate on its key enabling technologies. Finally, we present the research progress and outcomes achieved by our team on these core technologies, and discuss the challenges that remain. This paper aims to build consensus around intelligent and connected satellite technologies, promote innovation and standardization, and enhance the intelligent service capabilities of future large-scale satellite systems.

Keywords

Intelligent satellite cluster / Internet of satellites (IoS) / Space edge computing / Satellite semantic communication

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Guangteng Fan, Peng Wu, Mengqi Yang, Jian Wang, Dechao Ran, Jincheng Dai, Yimeng Zhang, Lu Cao, Wenjun Xu, Ping Zhang. Internet of Satellites (IoS) for Intelligent Satellite Cluster: Applications, Methods, and Challenges. Engineering, 2025, 54(11): 155-170 DOI:10.1016/j.eng.2025.08.024

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