Method and system for improved non-terrestrial networks

Abstract

Systems and methods for operating a satellite equipped with a base station include: indicating to a user equipment "UE" attempting to connect to the satellite that the satellite supports both: (i) direct transfer; and (ii) store-and-forward "S&F" modes of operation; receiving a data set from the UE, the data set including an indication of which mode of operation the satellite should use to transfer the data set; and based on the mode of operation indicated by the UE, either: (a) transferring the data set to one of: a second satellite; or a ground station; or (b) storing the data set in a data storage device and transferring the data set to the ground station at a later point in time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to methods and systems for operating non-terrestrial satellites, and more particularly to both operation storage and forwarding and direct transmission operation modes. Background Technology

[0002] The goal of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) is to enable direct 5G access via satellite. In Release 17, 3GPP has applied a phased approach to optimize 5G “direct access” integration for basic legacy and advanced satellite systems.

[0003] The Release 17 solution uses a so-called "transparent" satellite system, such as Figure 1 The system 100 is shown. User equipment 110, which communicates using 5G New Radio (NR), sends data to satellite 120, which then transmits the data to ground station 130 (e.g., via a feeder link or via a continuous inter-satellite link). Ground station 130 communicates with gNB base station 140, which is connected to 5G core network element 150.

[0004] Existing solutions have shown problems due to the potential lack of availability of feeder links and inter-satellite resources.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need in this field for systems and methods to address these problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a method for operating a satellite equipped with a base station is provided, the method comprising: instructing a user equipment (UE) attempting to connect to the satellite that the satellite supports both: (i) direct transmission; and (ii) store and forward (S&F) operating modes; receiving a data set from the UE, the data set including an indication of which operating mode the satellite should use to transmit the data set; and based on the operating mode indicated by the UE, either: transmitting the data set to one of: a second satellite; or a ground station; or, storing the data set in a data storage device and transmitting the data set to the ground station at a later time.

[0007] According to some embodiments, instructing a satellite to support both direct transmission and S&F operating modes includes transmitting a System Information Block (SIB) to the UE via a broadcast channel. The System Information Block includes at least one System Information element instructing the satellite to support both direct transmission and S&F operating modes.

[0008] According to some embodiments, the SIB includes a system information element that indicates the maximum data storage forwarding time.

[0009] According to some embodiments, the method includes indicating a momentary unavailability of one of the supported operating modes.

[0010] According to some embodiments, the momentary unavailability of the S&F operating mode is indicated based on the satellite's remaining data storage capacity.

[0011] According to some embodiments, the momentary unavailability of the S&F operating mode is linked to the priority of the data set, and different indications for different data priorities are available.

[0012] According to some embodiments, indicating support for the S&F operating mode includes indicating one or more data priorities, wherein the UE instructs the use of S&F depending on the UE's subscription, and wherein using S&F to transmit data sets from the UE results in corresponding different costs for different data priorities.

[0013] According to some embodiments, the momentary unavailability of the direct transmission operation mode is indicated based on the shortage of inter-satellite link (ISL) capacity.

[0014] According to some implementations, non-access stratum "NAS" data is always treated as being transmitted directly.

[0015] According to some embodiments, NAS data includes at least one of the following: authentication, identification, registration, security, or session management signaling.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the method includes having a satellite select a stored data set based on at least one of the following, and transmitting the data set to a ground station at a later time point, regardless of the operating mode indicated by the UE: a delay tolerance of the data set; a security level of the data set; an emergency level of the data set; the location of the UE; the location of the satellite; the location of a second satellite; the location of the ground station; the cumulative size of the data to be transmitted to the second satellite; the remaining data storage capacity of the satellite; or the remaining data storage capacity of the second satellite.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the method includes the satellite selecting a data set to transmit based on at least one of the following, regardless of the operating mode indicated by the UE: a delay tolerance of the data set; a security level of the data set; an emergency level of the data set; the location of the UE; the location of the satellite; the location of a second satellite; the location of a ground station; the cumulative size of the data to be transmitted to the second satellite; the remaining data storage capacity of the satellite; or the remaining data storage capacity of the second satellite.

[0018] According to some embodiments, the method includes, if the remaining satellite data storage capacity reaches a first capacity value, then transmitting at least some of the data stored in the data storage device to one of a second satellite or a ground station.

[0019] According to some embodiments, the method includes stopping the transmission of at least some data stored in the data storage device to a second satellite or ground station once the remaining satellite data storage capacity reaches a second capacity value that is less than a first capacity value.

[0020] According to one or more embodiments, a satellite equipped with a base station is provided, the satellite being configured to: instruct a user equipment (UE) attempting to connect to the satellite that the satellite supports both: (i) direct transmission; and (ii) store and forward (S&F) operating modes; receive a data set from the UE, the data set including an indication of which operating mode the satellite should use to transmit the data set; and based on the operating mode indicated by the UE, either: transmit the data set to one of: a second satellite; or a ground station; or, store the data set in a data storage device and transmit the data set to the ground station at a later time.

[0021] According to some embodiments, the satellite is configured to transmit a System Information Block (SIB) to the UE via a broadcast channel. The SIB includes at least one system information element indicating that the satellite supports both direct transmission and S&F operating modes.

[0022] According to some embodiments, the SIB includes a system information element that indicates the maximum data storage forwarding time.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the satellite is configured to indicate a momentary unavailability of one of the supported operating modes.

[0024] According to some embodiments, the satellite is configured to indicate the momentary unavailability of the S&F operating mode based on the satellite's remaining data storage capacity.

[0025] According to some embodiments, the satellite is configured to indicate momentary unavailability of S&F operating modes linked to the priority of the data set, wherein different indications for different data priorities are available.

[0026] According to some embodiments, indicating support for the S&F operating mode includes indicating one or more data priorities, wherein receiving an indication to use S&F from the UE depends on the UE's subscription, and wherein using S&F to transmit a set of data from the UE results in corresponding different costs for different data priorities.

[0027] According to some embodiments, satellites are configured to indicate momentary unavailability of direct transmission operation mode based on inter-satellite link (ISL) capacity shortage.

[0028] According to some embodiments, satellites are configured to always transmit non-access stratum "NAS" data via direct transmission.

[0029] According to some embodiments, NAS data includes at least one of the following: authentication, identification, registration, security, or session management signaling.

[0030] According to some embodiments, the satellite is configured to select, based on at least one of the following, to store the dataset and transmit the dataset to the ground station at a later time point, regardless of the operating mode indicated by the UE: the latency tolerance of the dataset; the security level of the dataset; the urgency level of the dataset; the location of the UE; the location of the satellite; the location of the second satellite; the location of the ground station; the cumulative size of the data to be transmitted to the second satellite; the remaining data storage capacity of the satellite; or the remaining data storage capacity of the second satellite.

[0031] According to some embodiments, the satellite is configured to select direct transmission of a data set based on at least one of the following, regardless of the operating mode indicated by the UE: the latency tolerance of the data set; the security level of the data set; the urgency level of the data set; the location of the UE; the location of the satellite; the location of the second satellite; the location of the ground station; the cumulative size of the data to be transmitted to the second satellite; the remaining data storage capacity of the satellite; or the remaining data storage capacity of the second satellite.

[0032] According to some embodiments, the satellite is configured to, if the remaining satellite data storage capacity reaches a first capacity value, then transmit at least some of the data stored in the data storage device to one of the second satellite or a ground station.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the satellite is configured to stop transmitting at least some of the data stored in the data storage device to a second satellite or ground station once the remaining satellite data storage capacity reaches a second capacity value that is less than a first capacity value.

[0034] According to one or more embodiments, a system is provided, comprising: a first satellite; a user equipment "UE"; a second satellite; and a ground station, wherein the UE is configured to attempt to connect to the first satellite, wherein the first satellite is configured to: instruct the UE that the first satellite supports both: (i) direct transmission; and (ii) store and forward (S&F) operating modes; receive a data set from the UE, the data set including an indication of which operating mode the first satellite should use to transmit the data set; and based on the operating mode indicated by the UE, either: transmit the data set to one of: the second satellite; or the ground station; or, store the data set and transmit the data set to the ground station at a later time.

[0035] According to some embodiments, the system is configured to perform one or more methods disclosed herein.

[0036] According to one or more embodiments, a method for operating a user equipment "UE" is provided, the method comprising: attempting to connect to a first satellite; receiving from the first satellite an indication that the first satellite supports both: (i) direct transmission; and (ii) store and forward (S&F) operating modes; and sending to the first satellite a data set, the data set including an indication of which operating mode the first satellite should use to transmit the data set.

[0037] According to some embodiments, receiving an indication that the first satellite supports both direct transmission and S&F operating modes includes receiving a System Information Block (SIB) via a broadcast channel. The SIB includes at least one System Information element indicating that the first satellite supports both direct transmission and S&F operating modes.

[0038] According to some embodiments, the SIB includes a system information element that indicates the maximum data storage forwarding time.

[0039] According to one or more embodiments, a user equipment "UE" is provided, which is configured to perform one or more methods disclosed herein.

[0040] According to some embodiments, due to subscription, the UE is configured to indicate only the S&F operation mode, but is able to indicate the direct transmission operation mode for any abnormal, urgent, or exceptional data. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Non-limiting examples of embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying figures. The dimensions of the features shown in the figures are chosen for convenience and clarity of representation and are not necessarily shown to scale. Subject matter considered to be the invention is specifically pointed out and clearly claimed in the concluding section of the specification. However, the organization and operation of the invention, as well as its objects, features, and advantages, can be understood by referring to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Embodiments are shown in the figures without limitation, wherein like reference numerals indicate corresponding, similar, or analogous elements, and wherein: Figure 1 A transparent satellite system was shown; Figure 2 A regenerative satellite system is shown; Figure 3 This demonstrates how continuous use of inter-satellite link resources can lead to data accumulation; Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating a method for operating a satellite equipped with a base station according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown; Figure 5A Examples of direct transmission according to some embodiments of the present invention are shown; Figure 5BExamples of store-and-forward operations according to some embodiments of the present invention are shown; Figure 6 A block diagram of an exemplary computing device 600 that can be used with some embodiments of the present invention is shown; Figure 7 A block diagram of an exemplary user device that can be used with embodiments of the present invention is shown; Figure 8 A block diagram of an exemplary base station that can be used with embodiments of the present invention is shown; and Figure 9 A block diagram of an exemplary satellite that can be used with embodiments of the present invention is shown.

[0042] It will be understood that, for the sake of simplicity and clarity, the elements shown in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements may be exaggerated relative to others for clarity. Furthermore, where deemed appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated in different figures to indicate corresponding or similar elements. Detailed Implementation

[0043] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, processes, components, modules, units, and / or circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.

[0044] Figure 2 The regenerative satellite system 200 is shown. It should be used in conjunction with... Figure 1 A comparison is made. In system 200, user equipment (UE) 210, communicating using 5G New Radio (NR), sends data to satellite 220, which then transmits the data to ground station 230 (e.g., via a feeder link or via a continuous inter-satellite link). Ground station 230 communicates with 5G core network element 250. Figure 1 The difference lies in the fact that the gNB base station is located within a satellite, such as satellite 220. The satellite includes base stations such as gNBs, which allows the satellite to not only transmit data directly from UE 210 (e.g., to ground station 230), but also amplify, remodulate, or demodulate the data. Furthermore, the satellite can store data for later forwarding, for example, due to changes in the relative positions between satellite 220 and ground station 230.

[0045] Where the satellite has been disconnected from the ground station since the data from the UE was transmitted to the satellite, store-and-forward (referred to as S&F in this paper) may be advantageous. Furthermore, continuous use of inter-satellite links can lead to traffic accumulation, burdening the last satellite in the "chain," such as... Figure 3 As shown.

[0046] Figure 3 This illustrates how continuous use of inter-satellite link resources can lead to data accumulation, a problem in the art. Satellite 320-1, with a coverage area / beam footprint 322-1, receives data 324-1 from one or more user equipments (such as user equipment 310-3) within its coverage area / beam footprint 322-1. Satellite 320-1 can transmit this data directly to satellite 320-2 via inter-satellite link 326-1. Satellite 320-2 can receive data 324-2 from one or more user equipments (such as UEs 310-5 and 310-6) within its own coverage area 322-2. Satellite 320-2 can transmit this data directly to satellite 320-3 via inter-satellite link (ISL) 326-2; however, satellite 320-2 needs to transmit not only the data 324-2 received from UEs within its own coverage area, but also the data 324-1 received from satellite 320-1 via ISL 326-1. Therefore, the data that satellite 320-2 can transmit to satellite 320-3 via ISL 326-2 may be larger than the data transmitted via ISL 326-1 (e.g., a larger total size in units such as MB, GB, etc.).

[0047] These increases in data size accumulate after successive ISLs, in Figure 3 The thicker arrow in the ISL is indicated by the bolder arrow. For example, ISL 326-5 between satellites 320-5 and 320-6 is thicker than ISL 326-4 between satellites 320-4 and 320-5, and ISL 326-4 between satellites 320-4 and 320-5 is thicker than ISL 326-3 between satellites 320-3 and 320-4.

[0048] exist Figure 3 In this configuration, the "chain" of ISLs terminates at satellite 320-7, which receives data from satellite 320-6 via ISL 326-6 (e.g., the thickest ISL represents accumulated data from satellites 320-1, 320-2, 320-3, 320-4, 320-5, and 320-6). Satellite 320-7 also receives data 324-7 from UEs within its coverage area. Satellite 320-7 is within range of ground station 330. Therefore, satellite 320-7 can directly transmit all accumulated data via feeder link 328-7 between satellite 320-7 and ground station 330.

[0049] It can be seen that the data transmission burden of satellite 320-7 is greater than that of satellite 320-1. The inventors have recognized that not all data needs to be transmitted directly. For example, some data can be delayed and can be received and stored by satellite 320-1 for later forwarding while satellite 320-1 is within range of a ground station, thereby saving ISL resources and extending the satellite's operational lifespan in non-terrestrial networks.

[0050] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating a method 400 for operating a satellite equipped with a base station according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown. The satellite may be, as described herein... Figure 9 The satellites discussed. Satellites can be equipped with base stations, such as those discussed in this article. Figure 8 The base station under discussion. For example, a base station could be a gNB.

[0051] Method 400 may include step 420, instructing a user equipment “UE” attempting to connect to a satellite that the satellite supports both: (i) direct transmission; and (ii) store and forward (S&F) operation modes.

[0052] UE can be as described in this article. Figure 7 The UE described.

[0053] Indications for both satellite-supported direct transmission and S&F operating modes can be made via system broadcast channels, for example by sending broadcast messages such as System Information Blocks (SIBs) to the UE.

[0054] For example, in method 400, instructing the satellite to support both direct transmission and S&F operation modes may include transmitting a system information block (SIB) to the UE via a broadcast channel. The system information block includes at least one system information element instructing the satellite to support both direct transmission and S&F operation modes.

[0055] The System Information Base (SIB) may include system information elements indicating the maximum data storage and forwarding time. For example, the maximum data storage and forwarding time may be indicated as a duration in seconds, minutes, hours, or any other suitable time measure. The maximum data storage and forwarding time may be indicated as a clock time, such as the difference from Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), for example, UTC+00:00, UTC+01:00, UTC-04:00, etc. The maximum data storage and forwarding time may represent the expected (e.g., predicted) time before the satellite can forward data to the ground station. Relativistic effects caused by the satellite's orbit may be considered when indicating the maximum data storage and forwarding time. This time may be a maximum time; for example, the transmission may occur before or after the indicated data storage and forwarding time has elapsed.

[0056] Method 400 may include step 440, receiving a data set from the UE, the data set including an indication of which operating mode the satellite should use to transmit the data set. For example, the data set may be communication data, such as 5G communication data, that the UE wishes to transmit over a network (e.g., an NTN network). The UE may send an indication of which operating mode the satellite should use to transmit the data (e.g., direct transmission or S&F) as part of the data. For example, the UE may indicate that the data should be transmitted directly, or the UE may indicate that the data should be transmitted using S&F. Different indications may be given for different parts of the data set. For example, a first part of the data may be indicated to be transmitted by S&F, while a second part of the data may be indicated to be transmitted by direct transmission. Different indications may be given for different types of data, which will be discussed further herein.

[0057] Method 400 may include step 460, based on an operating mode indicated by the UE, or: (a) transmitting the data set to one of: a second satellite; or a ground station; or (b) storing the data set in a data storage device and transmitting the data set to the ground station at a later time.

[0058] The second satellite can be a satellite in the same NTN as the satellite receiving the indication from the UE. The second satellite can be as described in this document. Figure 9 The satellites under discussion.

[0059] The ground station can be, may include, network elements located on Earth (e.g., relative to the satellite in orbit) such as base stations (e.g., gNBs or eNBs) or core network elements (e.g., 5GCs, EPCs) or may otherwise communicate with it. The satellite may communicate with the ground station via a feeder link.

[0060] Data storage devices can be such as Figure 6 Storage devices such as the storage device 630 described herein.

[0061] A later point in time may be based on the maximum data storage forwarding time discussed in this article or may be related to it in other ways.

[0062] According to some embodiments, the method may include indicating a momentary unavailability of one of the supported operating modes. For example, a satellite may indicate to the UE that one of the supported operating modes is temporarily unavailable. The indication may include expected (e.g., predicted) downtime and / or recovery time. Downtime may be a period of time in minutes, hours, or any other suitable time metric. Recovery time may be, or may be based on, UTC time discussed herein.

[0063] A momentary unavailability of one of the supported operating modes can occur for a variety of reasons. For example, the momentary unavailability indicating S&F operating mode can be based on the satellite's remaining data storage capacity. For instance, a satellite might run out of data storage capacity and thus no longer be able to commit to transmitting data via S&F. After the stored data is successfully transmitted to another satellite (such as a second satellite) or a ground station, the amount of stored data may decrease (and thus free up storage capacity). After this "unloading" of stored data, the need for the momentary unavailability of S&F can end, and the satellite can resume broadcasting instructions to support S&F.

[0064] During a transient unavailability of the S&F, the satellite may indicate that only direct transmission is available. Due to the resources involved in direct transmission, this may result in higher costs for user equipment (such as fees).

[0065] According to some embodiments, the indication to support direct transmission is based on the priority of data from the UE. For example, data that tolerates delay may be classified as low priority and may be ineligible for direct transmission. As another example, non-access stratum (NAS) data, such as data that includes or involves at least one of authentication, identification, registration, security, and / or session management signaling, may be classified as high priority. High-priority data can always be transmitted via direct transmission. High-priority data can be transmitted as direct transmission regardless of whether the UE indicates that such data should be transmitted by the S&F (Site & Flight Service), for example, the satellite may reject an indication from the UE.

[0066] Other data that can be categorized as high-priority data can include data that cannot tolerate delays, such as real-time data, like voice call data. Real-time can correspond to a system's response to events on the order of milliseconds or microseconds. People typically expect real-time telephone conversations, for example, with minimal latency between speakers on the order of seconds. NAS data can be considered high-priority data, meaning it cannot tolerate delays. Exceptional data, emergency data, or exceptional data can also be categorized as high-priority data, meaning it cannot tolerate delays. As those skilled in the art know, exceptional data is a technical term from the Internet of Things (IoT) field, referring to devices that do not have a voice to indicate an emergency call: generally, any data / reports that exceed normal and planned / expected activity, such as malfunctions.

[0067] According to some embodiments, the UE's ability to instruct a satellite on a specific operating mode for transmitting data depends on the UE's subscription. Transmission of different data priorities may be associated with different costs. For example, instructing to transmit low-priority data via direct transmission may incur higher costs for the UE than instructing to transmit low-priority data via S&F. Based on the UE's subscription, the UE may not be able to instruct a specific transmission mode for a particular data priority. Therefore, in some embodiments, instructing support for S&F operating modes includes instructing one or more data priorities, wherein the UE's instruction to use S&F depends on the UE's subscription, and wherein using S&F to transmit data sets from the UE results in correspondingly different costs for different data priorities.

[0068] In some embodiments, indications of one or more data priorities are included in the broadcast SIB information. Separate barring indications can be used to separate data priorities. For example, a satellite may indicate transient unavailability of S&F for a first data priority, but indicate availability of S&F for a second data priority different from the first. Therefore, in some embodiments, the transient unavailability indication of an S&F operating mode is linked to the priority of the data set, where different indications for different data priorities are available.

[0069] In some embodiments, when the S&F memory is nearly full (e.g., when the amount of data stored in the data storage device reaches the maximum capacity of the data storage device), only urgent or exceptional data can be accepted and stored by the satellite, while normal or low-priority data can be rejected for storage. For economic reasons, a "rejection" may occur before data transmission (e.g., the UE does not transmit data). Therefore, satellite indications, such as via the broadcast channel (BCH), can indicate that S&F is completely unavailable, or can provide further differentiation, as S&F availability can be based on data priority. The satellite can indicate that urgent data is always transmitted, even if, in the case of S&F, some other data from other users needs to be deleted from memory.

[0070] In some embodiments, the method may include (e.g., via satellite) indicating a momentary unavailability of the direct transmission operation mode based on inter-satellite link (ISL) capacity shortage. For example, if the satellite is not within range of a second satellite to establish an ISL, or if the satellite has accumulated a large amount of data to be transmitted via the ISL, the satellite may indicate that direct transmission is temporarily suspended. During this momentary unavailability of direct transmission, the satellite may indicate that only S&F (Short Message Service) can be used. Due to the resources involved in S&F, such as different data priorities, this may result in different costs (e.g., charges) for user equipment depending on the data. For example, storing images taken by a UE such as a smartphone (e.g., photos taken by a smartphone are typically about 2 MB in size) may cost more (e.g., in terms of additional storage costs) than storing SMS short message service messages (e.g., typically about 140 bytes in size).

[0071] According to some embodiments, the method includes always treating non-access stratum (NAS) data as being transmitted via direct transmission. NAS data may include, for example, data containing or relating to at least one of the following: authentication, identification, registration, security, and / or session management signaling.

[0072] Depending on the circumstances, a satellite may be unable to commit to or comply with a specific transmission mode indicated by the UE. For example, a satellite may lose connection with nearby satellites or ground stations and therefore be unable to transmit data directly. As another example, the data storage capacity of the satellite or a second satellite may be insufficient to support the received data set. In these cases, the satellite (e.g., a base station on the satellite) may "veto" the instructions received from the UE.

[0073] In some embodiments, the method may be performed by the satellite to select a stored data set based on at least one of the following, and to transmit the data set to the ground station at a later time point, regardless of the operating mode indicated by the UE: the delay tolerance of the data set; the security level of the data set; the urgency level of the data set; the location of the UE; the location of the satellite; the location of the second satellite; the location of the ground station; the cumulative size of the data to be transmitted to the second satellite; the remaining data storage capacity of the satellite; and / or the remaining data storage capacity of the second satellite.

[0074] Similarly, in some embodiments, the method may be used by the satellite to select (e.g., by direct transmission) the transmission of a data set based on at least one of the following, regardless of the operating mode indicated by the UE: the latency tolerance of the data set; the security level of the data set; the urgency level of the data set; the location of the UE; the location of the satellite; the location of the second satellite; the location of the ground station; the cumulative size of the data to be transmitted to the second satellite; the remaining data storage capacity of the satellite; and / or the remaining data storage capacity of the second satellite.

[0075] Specifically, in some embodiments, if the remaining satellite data storage capacity reaches a first capacity value, the method includes transferring at least some data stored in the data storage device to one of a second satellite or a ground station. This allows the satellite to "unload" some of the stored data, thereby freeing up available data storage space. Once the remaining satellite data storage capacity reaches a second capacity value less than the first capacity value, the method may include ceasing the transfer of at least some data stored in the data storage device to the second satellite or ground station. For example, once the data storage capacity drops below a predefined value, the satellite can stop "unloading" data and can resume S&F operations. Indications of S&F availability or its lack, such as indications of S&F availability or unavailability for certain data priority categories, can be updated or otherwise modified.

[0076] Figure 5A and Figure 5B An overview of the method according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0077] Figure 5A An example of direct transmission according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown. Satellite 520 indicates to UE 510 (e.g., as part of SIB on BCH) an indication 561 that Direct Transmission (DT) with Store & Forward (S&F) operating modes is available. The satellite may also indicate a time t, which may represent the maximum data storage and forwarding time. For example, t may be 3 hours. UE 510 may send a data set {DATA} and an indication to satellite 520 to transmit data using DT, as indicated by reference numeral 562. Satellite 520 may then transmit the data directly (563) via ISL to another satellite or directly to a ground station. Here, Figure 5A The diagram shows satellite 520 transmitting data directly to ground station 530 (e.g., via a feeder link). It should be understood that if satellite 520 is not within range of ground station 530, satellite 520 may transmit data to another satellite within range of ground station 530 via ISL, or to a satellite (not shown) within range of ground station 530 via a satellite link and ISL.

[0078] Figure 5BAn example of store-and-forward (S&F) operation according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown. Satellite 520 indicates to UE 510 (e.g., as part of SIB on BCH) an indication 571 that Direct Transmission (DT) with Store & Forward (S&F) operation modes are available. The satellite may also indicate a time t, which may represent the maximum data storage and forwarding time. For example, t may be 3 hours. UE 510 may send to satellite 520 a data set {DATA}, such as latency-tolerant data, and an indication to use S&F to transmit the data, as indicated by reference numeral 572. Satellite 520 may then store (573) the data in a data storage device 525 on the satellite. At a later point in time, such as after t = 3 hours, satellite 520 may retrieve (574) the data from data storage device 525 for forwarding (575) to ground station 530 (e.g., via feeder link). It should be understood that during the period of time t = 3 hours, satellite 520 will have moved into the range of ground station 530.

[0079] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a satellite equipped with a base station is provided, configured to perform one or more steps of one or more methods (such as method 400) described herein. The satellite may be as described herein regarding... Figure 9 As described.

[0080] For example, according to some embodiments, a satellite equipped with a base station is provided, the satellite being configured to: instruct a user equipment (UE) attempting to connect to the satellite that the satellite supports both: (i) direct transmission; and (ii) store and forward (S&F) operating modes; receive a data set from the UE, the data set including an indication of which operating mode the satellite should use to transmit the data set; and based on the operating mode indicated by the UE, either: (a) transmit the data set to one of: a second satellite; or a ground station; or (b) store the data set in a data storage device and transmit the data set to the ground station at a later time.

[0081] The base station can be, for example, a g node B (gNB).

[0082] In some embodiments, the satellite is configured to transmit a System Information Block (SIB) to the UE via a broadcast channel. The SIB includes at least one system information element indicating that the satellite supports both direct transmission and S&F operating modes, as discussed herein. As discussed herein, the SIB may include a system information element indicating the maximum data storage and forwarding time.

[0083] According to some embodiments, as discussed herein, a satellite is configured to indicate a momentary unavailability of one of the supported operating modes. For example, a satellite may be configured to indicate a momentary unavailability of the S&F operating mode based on the satellite's remaining data storage capacity.

[0084] In some embodiments, a satellite is configured to indicate momentary unavailability of an S&F operating mode linked to (e.g., based on) the priority of a data set, and wherein different indications for different data priorities are available (e.g., the satellite is configured to provide different indications for different data priorities), as discussed herein. For example, a satellite may be configured to indicate one or more data priorities, wherein receiving an indication of using S&F from a UE depends on the UE's subscription, and wherein using S&F to transmit data sets from the UE results in correspondingly different costs for different data priorities, as discussed herein.

[0085] In some embodiments, a satellite may be configured to indicate momentary unavailability of the direct transmission operation mode based on inter-satellite link (ISL) capacity shortage.

[0086] Satellites can be configured to always transmit Non-Access Stratum (NAS) data via direct transmission. NAS data may include or involve at least one of the following: authentication, identification, registration, security, and / or session management signaling, as discussed herein.

[0087] According to some embodiments, a satellite can be configured to select a stored data set based on at least one of the following, and transmit the data set to a ground station at a later time, regardless of the operating mode indicated by the UE: delay tolerance of the data set; security level of the data set; urgency level of the data set; location of the UE; location of the satellite; location of the second satellite; location of the ground station; cumulative size of data to be transmitted to the second satellite; remaining data storage capacity of the satellite; and / or remaining data storage capacity of the second satellite.

[0088] Similarly, in some embodiments, as discussed herein, a satellite may be configured to select direct transmission of a data set based on at least one of the following, regardless of the operating mode indicated by the UE: the latency tolerance of the data set; the security level of the data set; the urgency level of the data set; the location of the UE; the location of the satellite; the location of the second satellite; the location of the ground station; the cumulative size of the data to be transmitted to the second satellite; the remaining data storage capacity of the satellite; and / or the remaining data storage capacity of the second satellite.

[0089] In some embodiments, if the remaining satellite data storage capacity reaches a first capacity value, the satellite is configured to transmit at least some data stored in the data storage device to one of a second satellite or a ground station. As discussed herein, once the remaining satellite data storage capacity reaches a second capacity value less than the first capacity value, the satellite can be configured to stop transmitting at least some data stored in the data storage device to the second satellite or the ground station.

[0090] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a system is provided for implementing one or more steps of one or more methods (such as method 400) of the present invention described herein. For example, a system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a first satellite (such as described herein); a user equipment "UE"; a second satellite; and a ground station. The UE may be configured to attempt to connect to the first satellite. The first satellite may be configured to: instruct the UE that the first satellite supports both: (i) direct transmission; and (ii) store and forward (S&F) operating modes, as described herein. The first satellite may be configured to receive a data set from the UE, the data set including an indication of which operating mode the first satellite should use to transmit the data set, and based on the operating mode indicated by the UE, either: (a) transmit the data set to one of: the second satellite; or the ground station; or (b) store the data set (e.g., in a data storage device of the first satellite) and transmit the data set to the ground station at a later time.

[0091] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a method for operating a user equipment (UE) is also provided. The method may include: attempting to connect to a first satellite; receiving from the first satellite an indication that the first satellite supports both: (i) direct transmission; and (ii) store and forward (S&F) operating modes; and transmitting a data set to the first satellite, the data set including an indication of which operating mode the first satellite should use to transmit the data set. As described herein, the satellite may decode or otherwise process the indication from the UE. For example, if the UE indicates that data should be transmitted via direct transmission, the satellite may, as described herein, decode or otherwise process the indication. Figure 5A As described in [the document]. If the UE instructs that data be transmitted via S&F, the satellite can proceed as described in [the document]. Figure 5B It will proceed as described in the text.

[0092] Receiving an indication that the first satellite supports both direct transmission and S&F operating modes may include the UE receiving a System Information Block (SIB) via a broadcast channel. The SIB includes at least one system information element indicating that the first satellite supports both direct transmission and S&F operating modes. As described herein, the SIB may include a system information element indicating the maximum data storage and forwarding time.

[0093] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a user equipment is provided, which is configured to perform one or more steps of one or more methods described herein.

[0094] User equipment according to one or more embodiments of the present invention can be configured to, for example, indicate only the S&F operating mode due to subscription, but be able to indicate a direct transmission operating mode for any abnormal, urgent, or exceptional data. As discussed herein, subscriptions can link different data priorities to different costs. Instructions from satellites can be linked to different data priorities. The UE can use the maximum data storage and forwarding time indicated by the satellite to determine whether the tolerable delay of the data the UE wishes to send, to which transmission is only permitted after the maximum data storage and forwarding time has elapsed, is acceptable. It should be understood that in a satellite "chain" that can communicate via inter-satellite links, the roles of the satellites and the second satellite discussed herein can be interchanged, depending on, for example, the relative positions of the satellites and / or the direction of the information flow to / from the satellites.

[0095] As used herein, references to actions or steps taken by a satellite may refer to actions or steps performed by a base station on that satellite.

[0096] Figure 6 A block diagram of an exemplary computing device 600 that can be used with some embodiments of the present invention is shown.

[0097] As described herein, any of the following: user equipment; core network components; satellites; and / or base stations may be or may include, as described herein. Figure 6 The components of the computing device 600 shown.

[0098] The computing device 600 may include a controller or computer processor 605 (which may be, for example, a central processing unit processor (CPU), a chip, or any suitable computing device), an operating system 615, a memory 620, a storage device 630, an input device 635, and an output device 640 (such as a computer monitor or display showing, for example, a computer desktop system).

[0099] Operating system 615 may be or may include code for performing tasks involving the coordination, scheduling, arbitration, or management of operations of computing device 600 (e.g., the execution of a scheduler). Memory 620 may be or may include, for example, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, volatile or non-volatile memory, or other suitable memory cells or storage units. At least a portion of memory 620 may include data storage hosted online in the cloud. Memory 620 may be or may include multiple different memory cells. Memory 620 may store, for example, instructions (e.g., code 625) to implement methods disclosed herein, such as method 400. Memory 620 may use data storage, such as a database.

[0100] Executable code 625 can be any application, program, process, task, or script. Executable code 625 may be executed by controller 605 under the control of operating system 615. For example, executable code 625 may be or can execute one or more applications that perform the methods disclosed herein, such as method 400. In some embodiments, more than one computing device 600 or components of device 600 may be used. One or more processors 605 may be configured to implement embodiments of the invention by, for example, executing software or code.

[0101] Storage device 630 may be, or may include, for example, a hard disk drive, floppy disk drive, optical disk drive (CD), universal serial bus (USB) device, or other suitable removable and / or fixed storage unit. The data described herein may be stored in storage device 630 and may be loaded from storage device 630 into storage device 620, where the data may be processed by controller 605. Storage device 630 may include cloud storage. Storage device 630 may include storing data in a database.

[0102] When the storage device 630 is included in or is part of the user equipment, the storage device 630 can store data such as MNC, MCC, TIMSI, secret values, UE capability information or other data.

[0103] Where storage device 630 is included in or is part of a satellite as described herein, storage device 630 may store data received from one or more UEs, or data received from one or more other satellites.

[0104] Input device 635 may be or may include a mouse, keyboard, touchscreen, touchpad, or any suitable input device or combination thereof. Input device 635 may include a receiver, such as an antenna receiver. Output device 640 may include one or more displays, speakers, and / or any other suitable output device or combination thereof. Output device 640 may include a transmitter, such as an antenna transmitter. Any suitable input / output (I / O) device may be connected to computing device 600; for example, a wired or wireless network interface card (NIC), modem, printer, universal serial bus (USB) device, or external hard drive may be included in input device 635 and / or output device 640.

[0105] Embodiments of the present invention may include one or more articles (e.g., memory 620 or storage device 630), such as a computer or processor nontransitory readable medium, or a computer or processor nontransitory storage medium, such as, for example, a memory, a disk drive, or a USB flash memory, which encode, include, or store instructions, such as computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by a processor or controller, implement the methods disclosed herein.

[0106] Now for reference Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a block diagram of an exemplary user equipment (UE) 700 that can be used with embodiments of the present invention.

[0107] UE 700 may include a radio interface 705. Radio interface 705 may include an antenna, a transceiver, and / or any other suitable components to allow communication between UE 700 and the telecommunications network.

[0108] UE 700 may include a user identity module 710. The user identity module 710 may store user-specific information, such as International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI), and may be used for authentication and authorization on telecommunications networks.

[0109] UE 700 may include mobile device 715. Mobile device 715 may include processor, memory, display, and user interface.

[0110] UE 700 may include battery 720. Battery 720 can power UE 700, allowing it to operate without being connected to an external power source.

[0111] UE 700 may include operating system 725. Operating system 725 may manage the resources of UE 700 and / or provide a platform for running applications.

[0112] UE 700 may include application software 730. Application software 730 may be user-installed applications and system applications running on UE 700, providing various functions for UE 700.

[0113] UE 700 may include a user interface 735. UE 735 may include a touchscreen, buttons, a display, and / or any other suitable components through which the user can interact with UE 700.

[0114] UE 700 may include sensor 740. Sensor 740 may include an accelerometer, gyroscope, GPS and ambient light sensor, camera and / or any other suitable sensor known in the art. Sensor 740 may allow features such as orientation detection, location-based services, and any other suitable features known in the art.

[0115] UE 700 may include a connectivity module 745. The connectivity module 745 may support various connectivity options, including cellular networks (e.g., 4G / LTE, 5G), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC (Near Field Communication), allowing UE 700 to connect to other devices and telecommunications networks.

[0116] UE 700 may include a security component 750. The security component 750 is responsible for ensuring the security and privacy of user data and communications. The security component 750 may include encryption / decryption hardware and software, as well as security features to prevent malware and unauthorized access.

[0117] UE 700 may include memory 755 (e.g., RAM) for running applications. UE 700 may include storage device 760 (e.g., internal storage or a removable SD card) and storage device (e.g., internal storage or a removable SD card) for storing data and applications.

[0118] UE 700 may include a charging port 765 for charging battery 720.

[0119] In some embodiments, this can be omitted. Figure 7 Some of the components shown. In some embodiments, UE 700 may include Figure 7 Additional components conforming to standard specifications (e.g., 3GPP specifications) are not shown.

[0120] Now for reference Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a block diagram of an exemplary base station (BS) 800 that can be used with embodiments of the present invention. The base station 800 may be, for example, a gNB.

[0121] BS 800 may include a radio transceiver 805. The radio transceiver 805 can transmit and receive radio signals.

[0122] BS 800 may include antenna system 810. Antenna system 810 may include one or more antennas that can transmit and receive signals over the air in specific directions and modes. For example, antenna system 810 may include advanced antenna technologies such as multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) and beamforming, which can improve network performance and coverage.

[0123] BS 800 may include a baseband processing unit 815. The baseband processing unit 815 can process baseband signals. The baseband processing unit 815 can perform tasks such as modulation / demodulation, encoding / decoding, error correction, and channel allocation.

[0124] BS 800 may include a digital signal processing unit 820. The digital signal processing unit 820 can process and manipulate digital signals within the baseband processing unit 815. The digital signal processing unit 820 can perform tasks such as signal processing, beamforming, interference cancellation, and MIMO processing.

[0125] The BS 800 may include a backhaul connection 825. The backhaul connection 825 can provide high-capacity backhaul connectivity to connect the BS 800 to the core network. The backhaul connection 825 may include a wired connection, such as a fiber optic or microwave link.

[0126] The BS 800 may include a power supply unit 830. The power supply unit 830 can provide power to the components of the BS 800 to ensure continuous operation.

[0127] The BS 800 may include a control and management unit 835. The control and management unit 835 is responsible for controlling and managing the operation of the BS 800. The control and management unit 835 can handle tasks such as network configuration, software updates, and fault management.

[0128] The BS 800 may include a cooling system 840. The cooling system 840 may include a fan, a radiator, and / or a liquid cooling system, which can maintain the equipment of the BS 800 within its operating temperature range.

[0129] BS 800 may include a timing and synchronization unit 845. The timing and synchronization unit 845 can perform timing and synchronization to maintain the integrity of the communication network, for example, to ensure that all base stations in the network are synchronized with a common timing reference.

[0130] The BS 800 may include a security and encryption unit 850. The security and encryption unit 850 can perform tasks such as user data encryption and UE authentication to protect the network from unauthorized access and malicious attacks.

[0131] The BS 800 may include a fault detection and warning unit 855. The fault detection and warning unit 855 can monitor device health and issue warnings when hardware or software problems are critical to maintaining network reliability and availability.

[0132] In some embodiments, this can be omitted. Figure 8 Some of the components shown. In some embodiments, BS 800 may include Figure 8 Additional components conforming to standard specifications (e.g., 3GPP specifications) are not shown.

[0133] Now for reference Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is a block diagram of an exemplary satellite 900 that can be used with embodiments of the present invention.

[0134] Satellite 900 may include a transponder 905. Transponder 905 may receive signals from a base station and / or user equipment. Transponder 905 may transmit signals to a base station and / or user equipment. Transponder 905 may be configured for different frequency bands and services. Transponder 905 may include modulation and demodulation equipment to encode and decode transmitted data. Satellite 900 may include an antenna 910 for receiving and transmitting signals.

[0135] Satellite 900 may include a command and control system 915. The command and control system 915 can maintain the orbital position, attitude, and health status of satellite 900. The command and control system 915 can handle adjustments to satellite 900's transponder 905, power level, and other settings.

[0136] Satellite 900 may include a processing unit 920. The processing unit 920 can manage communication protocols, signal routing, efficiently process and relay data between uplink and downlink, and other data-related functions. The processing unit 920 may be or may include, for example... Figure 6 One or more components of the computing device shown.

[0137] Satellite 900 may include a power system 925. Power system 925 may include, for example, solar panels to generate electricity from sunlight. This electricity may be stored in onboard batteries and used to operate the satellite system, including communication payloads (e.g., transponder 905). Power system 925 may include regulators and converters to ensure a stable power supply.

[0138] In some embodiments, satellite 900 may include base station 930 (e.g., as described above regarding...). Figure 8 The described base station 800). In other embodiments, satellite 900 may act as a relay for radio signals, wherein base station 930 may be located on Earth (e.g., wherein base station 930 may include the components described above). Figure 8 The description of the functions, units, modules, and systems of base station 800. References to actions or methods performed by a satellite may refer to or refer to actions or methods performed by a satellite-borne base station (such as base station 930).

[0139] Satellite 900 can be a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite, a geostationary orbit (GEO) satellite, a medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellite, a very low Earth orbit (VLEO) satellite, or any other type of satellite suitable for providing communications. Satellite 900 can be part of a 3D satellite constellation in different orbits. Satellite 900 can be part of a non-terrestrial network (NTN).

[0140] In some embodiments, this can be omitted. Figure 9 Some of the components shown. In some embodiments, satellite 900 may include components that may be needed to support communication between the satellite and base stations and / or user equipment. Figure 9 Additional components not shown.

[0141] Embodiments of the present invention are expected to have implications for existing or future non-terrestrial network telecommunications architectures and associated standards. For example, embodiments of the present invention may be employed in 5G, beyond 5G, 6G, and / or future NTN architectures. The ongoing development of these standards, as well as the conceptualization and implementation of future standards, may depend on the systems and / or methods of the present invention.

[0142] For example, embodiments of the present invention can extend the capabilities of 3GPP, 5G, and / or 6G standards by making new indications in the SIB indicating parallel support (and / or transient unavailability) for direct transmit and store-and-forward operation modes. The SIB may also include the maximum data storage and forwarding time as an additional system information element, upon which the UE can make decisions about the permissible delay tolerance for the data to be transmitted.

[0143] Unless otherwise stated, it is obvious from the foregoing discussion that, throughout the discussion of this specification, the use of terms such as “processing,” “computing,” “operation,” and “determining” refers to the actions and / or processes of a computer or computing system or similar electronic computing device that manipulate and / or transform data representing physical quantities (such as electronic quantities) in the registers and / or memory of the computing system into other data similarly represented in the memory, registers, or other such information storage, transmission, or display devices of the computing system.

[0144] It should be recognized that embodiments of the present invention can address one or more objectives and / or challenges described in the background section, and embodiments of the present invention do not need to satisfy every one of the above objectives and / or challenges to fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0145] In the above description, embodiments are examples or implementations of the present invention. Various appearances of "an embodiment," "an embodiment," or "some embodiments" do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[0146] While various features of the invention may be described in the context of a single embodiment, these features may also be provided individually or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the invention may be described herein in the context of a standalone embodiment for clarity, the invention may also be implemented in a single embodiment. Although the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that one or more features from a particular embodiment or set of embodiments may be combined with features from another embodiment or set of embodiments.

[0147] The terms "some embodiments," "embodiments," "one embodiment," or "other embodiments" used in the specification mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least some embodiments of the invention, but not necessarily in all embodiments.

[0148] It should be understood that the wording and terminology used in this article should not be interpreted as restrictive, but merely for descriptive purposes.

[0149] It should be understood that the details set forth herein do not constitute a limitation on the application of this invention.

[0150] It should be understood that the terms “including,” “comprising,” “comprise,” and their grammatical variations do not preclude the addition of one or more components, features, steps, or integers or combinations thereof, and these terms should be interpreted as specifying a component, feature, step, or integer.

[0151] If the specification or claims refer to an “additional” element, this does not preclude the existence of more than one additional element.

[0152] It should be understood that when the word "a" or "an" element is mentioned in the claims or specification, such reference should not be interpreted as meaning that there is only one such element.

[0153] It should be understood that when the specification states that a component, feature, structure, or characteristic "may," "may," "can," or "may" be included, a particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic does not need to be included.

[0154] Where applicable, although state diagrams, flowcharts, or both may be used to describe embodiments, the invention is not limited to these diagrams or corresponding descriptions. For example, the process does not need to move through each illustrated box or state, or move in the exact same order as illustrated and described.

Claims

1. A method for operating a satellite equipped with a base station, the method comprising: Instruct the user equipment (UE) attempting to connect to the satellite that the satellite supports both of the following: (i) Direct transmission; as well as (ii) Store and Forward (S&F) Operating modes; The data set is received from the UE, including an indication of which operating mode the satellite should use to transmit the data set; and Based on the operating mode indicated by the UE, or: Transfer the data set to one of the following: A second satellite; or Ground station; or The data set is stored in a data storage device and then transmitted to a ground station at a later time.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein instructing the satellite to support both direct transmission and S&F operation modes comprises transmitting a system information block (SIB) to the UE via a broadcast channel, the system information block comprising at least one system information element instructing the satellite to support both direct transmission and S&F operation modes.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The SIB includes system information elements that indicate the maximum data storage forwarding time.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, comprising indicating a momentary unavailability of one of the supported operating modes.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the momentary unavailability indicating the S&F operating mode is based on the satellite's remaining data storage capacity.

6. The method of claim 4 or 5, wherein the momentary unavailability of the S&F operating mode is linked to the priority of the data set, and wherein different indications for different data priorities are available.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The indication of support for S&F operation mode includes indicating one or more data priorities, wherein the use of S&F by the UE depends on the UE's subscription, and wherein, for different data priorities, using S&F to transmit a set of data from the UE results in corresponding different costs.

8. The method of claim 4, wherein the momentary unavailability of indicating the direct transmission operation mode is based on the inter-satellite link (ISL) capacity shortage.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein non-access stratum "NAS" data is always treated as direct transmission.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein the NAS data includes at least one of the following: authentication, identification, registration, security, or session management signaling.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1-10, comprising having the satellite select a stored data set based on at least one of the following, and transmitting the data set to the ground station at a later time point, regardless of the operating mode indicated by the UE: Latency tolerance of the dataset; Security level of the data set; The urgency level of the data set; UE location; The satellite's location; The location of the second satellite; Location of the ground station; The cumulative size of the data to be sent to the second satellite; The satellite's remaining data storage capacity; or The remaining data storage capacity of the second satellite.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1-10, comprising the satellite selecting a data set to be transmitted based on at least one of the following, regardless of the operating mode indicated by the UE: Latency tolerance of the dataset; Security level of the data set; The urgency level of the data set; UE location; The satellite's location; The location of the second satellite; Location of the ground station; The cumulative size of the data to be sent to the second satellite; The satellite's remaining data storage capacity; or The remaining data storage capacity of the second satellite.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein, If the remaining satellite data storage capacity reaches the first capacity value, then at least some of the data stored in the data storage device will be transferred to one of the second satellites or ground stations.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein once the remaining satellite data storage capacity reaches a second capacity value less than the first capacity value, then the transmission of at least some data stored in the data storage device to the second satellite or ground station is stopped.

15. A satellite equipped with a base station, the satellite being configured to: Instruct the user equipment (UE) attempting to connect to the satellite that the satellite supports both of the following: (i) direct transmission; and (ii) Store and Forward (S&F) Operating modes; The data set is received from the UE, including an indication of which operating mode the satellite should use to transmit the data set; and Based on the operating mode indicated by the UE, or: Transfer the data set to one of the following: A second satellite; or Ground station; or The data set is stored in a data storage device and then transmitted to a ground station at a later time.

16. The satellite of claim 15, configured to transmit a System Information Block (SIB) to the UE via a broadcast channel, the SIB including at least one system information element indicating that the satellite supports both direct transmission and S&F operating modes.

17. The satellite according to claim 16, wherein, The SIB includes system information elements that indicate the maximum data storage forwarding time.

18. The satellite according to any one of claims 15-17, configured to indicate a momentary unavailability of one of the supported operating modes.

19. The satellite of claim 18, configured to indicate momentary unavailability of S&F operating mode based on the satellite's remaining data storage capacity.

20. The satellite of claim 18 or 19, configured to indicate momentary unavailability of an S&F operating mode linked to the priority of a data set, wherein different indications for different data priorities are available.

21. The satellite according to any one of claims 15-17, wherein, The indication to support S&F operation mode includes indicating one or more data priorities, wherein receiving an indication to use S&F from the UE depends on the UE's subscription, and wherein using S&F to transmit a set of data from the UE results in different costs for different data priorities.

22. The satellite of claim 18, configured to indicate momentary unavailability of direct transmission operation mode based on inter-satellite link (ISL) capacity shortage.

23. The satellite of claim 15, configured to always transmit non-access stratum "NAS" data via direct transmission.

24. The satellite according to claim 23, wherein, NAS data includes at least one of the following: authentication, identification, registration, security, or session management signaling.

25. The satellite according to any one of claims 15-24, configured to select a stored data set based on at least one of the following, and to transmit the data set to a ground station at a later time point, regardless of the operating mode indicated by the UE: Latency tolerance of the dataset; Security level of the data set; The urgency level of the data set; UE location; The satellite's location; The location of the second satellite; Location of the ground station; The cumulative size of the data to be sent to the second satellite; The satellite's remaining data storage capacity; or The remaining data storage capacity of the second satellite.

26. The satellite according to any one of claims 15-24, configured to select direct transmission of a data set based on at least one of the following, regardless of the operating mode indicated by the UE: Latency tolerance of the dataset; Security level of the data set; The urgency level of the data set; UE location; The satellite's location; The location of the second satellite; Location of the ground station; The cumulative size of the data to be sent to the second satellite; The satellite's remaining data storage capacity; or The remaining data storage capacity of the second satellite.

27. The satellite according to any one of claims 15-24, configured to, if the remaining satellite data storage capacity reaches a first capacity value, then transmit at least some of the data stored in the data storage device to one of a second satellite or a ground station.

28. The satellite of claim 27, wherein once the remaining satellite data storage capacity reaches a second capacity value less than the first capacity value, then transmission of at least some data stored in the data storage device to the second satellite or ground station is stopped.

29. A system comprising: First satellite; User Equipment (UE); Second satellite; as well as Ground station, The UE is configured to attempt to connect to the first satellite. The first satellite is configured as follows: Instruct the UE that the satellite supports both of the following: (i) direct transmission; and (ii) Store and Forward (S&F) Operating modes; The data set is received from the UE, including an indication of which operating mode the satellite should use to transmit the data set; and Based on the operating mode indicated by the UE, or: Transfer the data set to one of the following: A second satellite; or Ground station; or Store the data set and transmit it to the ground station at a later time.

30. The system of claim 29, configured to implement the method of any one of claims 1 to 14.

31. A method for operating a user equipment (UE), the method comprising: Try connecting to the first satellite; Receive instructions from the first satellite that the first satellite supports both of the following: (i) Direct transmission; as well as (ii) Store and Forward (S&F) Operating modes; and Send a data set to the first satellite, the data set including an indication of which operating mode the first satellite should use to transmit the data set.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein receiving an indication that the first satellite supports both direct transmission and S&F operating modes comprises receiving a System Information Block (SIB) via a broadcast channel, the SIB comprising at least one System Information element indicating that the first satellite supports both direct transmission and S&F operating modes.

33. The method according to claim 32, wherein, The SIB includes system information elements that indicate the maximum data storage forwarding time.

34. A user equipment "UE" configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 17-22.

35. The user equipment of claim 34, configured to indicate only the S&F operating mode via subscription, but capable of indicating a direct transmission operating mode for any abnormal, urgent, or exceptional data.

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