In this Phase I proposal, Remcom proposes a complete, end-to-end modeling and simulation solution for predicting wireless propagation and network coverage for lunar scenarios. Our solution builds on mature, existing capabilities previously developed for the wireless industry and the U.S. government, specifically enhanced to include 4G and 5G technologies. Under this effort, we will perform research and development to incorporate key extensions to properly model lunar terrain, position assets on or above its surface, and handle several key conditions unique to the lunar environment, such as the surface materials, the presence of dust, and unique terrain features. The proposed capabilities provide sufficient precision to support analysis reliant on detailed phase and delay information, including applications such as MIMO, Doppler estimation, and precise Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT). The study will also include link-level analysis which accords with 3GPP specifications to determine potential impacts to communication from Doppler due to fast-moving vehicles or satellites, latency due to high-altitude or long-range links, and delay spread caused by high-multipath environments, such as propagation within craters. At the conclusion of Phase I, we will have a preliminary simulation capability within a mature product, and proofs-of-concept for several proposed enhancements to further improve its capabilities for lunar channel simulation.

The ultimate outcome of this SBIR will be an enhanced version of the Wireless InSite simulation product, incorporating new data and algorithms for handling lunar materials, the unique terrain, and the impact of multipath, Doppler, and latency to communications. Given the challenges of lunar channel modeling and measurement, this will provide a valuable predictive tool for understanding the channel, planning placement of 4G/5G towers and relays, and estimating device-to-device connectivity for systems unable to otherwise connect to the network.

Two of the major innovations are also very relevant for the broader wireless industry, including enhancements for longer-range propagation over terrain (has applications for rural coverage and satellite links), as well as the ability to incorporate the effects of Doppler, fading, and delay spread on the communication link, which will also be very valuable for dense urban and indoor simulations.