# CubeSat Communications: Recent Advances and Future Challenges

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/1908.09501 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/1908.09501/

## Key facts

- Cited by 10 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 26 Aug 2019.

## Built on by (most cited first, 10 of 10)

- [Edge Artificial Intelligence for 6G: Vision, Enabling Technologies, and Applications](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2111.12444/) (2021)
- [Artificial Intelligence for Satellite Communication: A Review](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2101.10899/) (2021)
- [Dynamic Routing for Integrated Satellite-Terrestrial Networks: A Constrained Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning Approach](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2401.09455/) (2023)
- [Handover Protocol Learning for LEO Satellite Networks: Access Delay and Collision Minimization](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2310.20215/) (2023)
- [Learning Emergent Random Access Protocol for LEO Satellite Networks](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2112.01765/) (2021)
- [Artificial Intelligence for Atmospheric Sciences: A Research Roadmap](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2506.16281/) (2025)
- [Graph Neural Networks for the Offline Nanosatellite Task Scheduling Problem](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2303.13773/) (2023)
- [Morphology and Behavior Co-Optimization of Modular Satellites for Attitude Control](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2409.13166/) (2024)
- [Challenges in Applying Variational Quantum Algorithms to Dynamic Satellite Network Routing](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2508.04288/) (2025)
- [Towards Resilient Intrusion Detection in CubeSats: Challenges, TinyML Solutions, and Future Directions](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2604.06411/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Given the increasing number of space-related applications, research in the emerging space industry is becoming more and more attractive. One compelling area of current space research is the design of miniaturized satellites, known as CubeSats, which are enticing because of their numerous applications and low design-and-deployment cost. The new paradigm of connected space through CubeSats makes possible a wide range of applications, such as Earth remote sensing, space exploration, and rural connectivity. CubeSats further provide a complementary connectivity solution to the pervasive Internet of Things (IoT) networks, leading to a globally connected cyber-physical system. This paper presents a holistic overview of various aspects of CubeSat missions and provides a thorough review of the topic from both academic and industrial perspectives. We further present recent advances in the area of CubeSat communications, with an emphasis on constellation-and-coverage issues, channel modeling, modulation and coding, and networking. Finally, we identify several future research directions for CubeSat communications, including Internet of space things, low-power long-range networks, and machine learning for CubeSat resource allocation.