Subterranean mMTC in Remote Areas: Underground-to-Satellite Connectivity Approach

Wireless underground sensor networks (WUSNs) promise to deliver substantial social and economic benefits across different verticals. However, many of the relevant application scenarios are located in remote areas with no supporting infrastructure available. To address this challenge, we conceptualize study direct-to-satellite (U-DtS) connectivity approach, implying reception signals sent by massive machine-type communication (mMTC) sensors gateways operating on low Earth orbit satellites. We start discussing two alternative architectures for enabling such underline their features limitations. Then, employ simulations model a smart-farming scenario studying feasibility performance U-DtS mMTC based LoRaWAN technology, focus effect parameters including burial depths, soils characteristics, settings. Our results reveal that LoRa modulation fails compete propagation losses high packets collision rate. long range-frequency hopping spread spectrum (LR-FHSS) is perspective may enable subsurface nodes at depth several dozens centimeters. Finally, pinpoint potential challenges research directions future studies.