Link-length Analysis for First-neighbor Optical ISLs in Ultra-dense LEO Constellations

In this work, we performed a detailed study of first-neighbor type connections for ultra-dense next-generation low-Earth orbit (LEO) constellations. The link lengths and their corresponding free-space path losses (FSPLs) are quantified for both intraorbital and interorbital connections (the latter in two distinct topologies). Each of the inter-satellite links (ISLs) is then categorized with respect to the minimum altitude reached, checking for eventual physical changes in the propagation medium or occlusion of the beam by the Earth's surface.