A Large-Scale IPv6-Based Measurement of the Starlink Network (2412.18243v2)

Abstract: Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite networks have attracted considerable attention for their ability to deliver global, low-latency broadband Internet services. In this paper, we present a large-scale measurement study of the Starlink network, the largest LEO satellite constellation to date. We begin by proposing an efficient method for discovering active Starlink user routers, identifying approximately 3.2 million IPv6 addresses across 102 countries and 123 regions-representing, to the best of our knowledge, the most complete list of Starlink user routers' active IPv6 addresses. Based on the discovered user routers, we map the Starlink backbone network, which consists of 33 Points of Presence (PoPs) and 70 connections between them. Furthermore, we conduct a detailed statistical analysis of active Starlink users and PoPs. Finally, we summarize the IPv6 address assignment strategy adopted by the Starlink network. The dataset of the backbone network is publicly available at https://ki3.org.cn/#/starlink-network.

• The paper introduces an advanced IPv6-based methodology to discover 3.2 million active Starlink user router addresses, creating the largest dataset to date across 102 countries.
• Using the dataset, the study mapped 33 Starlink Points of Presence (PoPs) and identified 70 backbone connections, significantly augmenting knowledge of the network topology.
• Findings show North America hosts 61% of identified users and reveal disparities in traffic handling across PoPs, highlighting regional coverage patterns.

A Large-Scale IPv6-Based Measurement of the Starlink Network

The paper "A Large-Scale IPv6-Based Measurement of the Starlink Network" presents an extensive empirical analysis of the Starlink network, focusing on its most comprehensive aspect to date: its global structure and operation as discerned through active user routers and backbone networking infrastructure. This paper is rooted in the burgeoning potential of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite networks to deliver expansive, low-latency internet capabilities worldwide, with Starlink being the predominant player in this sector due to its substantial satellite constellation.

Methodology and Findings

The authors introduce an advanced methodology for discovering active IPv6 addresses of Starlink's user routers, developing what appears to be the most complete dataset to date, comprising approximately 3.2 million IPv6 addresses across 102 countries and 123 regions. By capitalizing on Starlink's native IPv6 support, they deploy an optimized scanning tactic leveraging XMap to hone in on IPv6 router address configurations accurately. This approach is notably significant given Starlink's IPv4 infrastructure limitations, particularly its heavy reliance on CGNAT, which obscures many user endpoints from standard IPv4 probing.

The investigation identifies 33 Points of Presence (PoPs), forming a well-structured Starlink backbone network with 70 connections identified among these PoPs. By conducting traceroute experiments via a combination of Starlink dishes and RIPE Atlas probes, the authors map the backbone network's topology. This mapping disclosed an additional 12 PoPs and 33 connections beyond prior research, significantly augmenting the existing understanding of Starlink's infrastructure.

The paper presents detailed statistics on user distribution relative to Starlink PoPs, revealing that North America hosts the majority of users, with 61% of the identified IPv6 addresses located there. Furthermore, the paper identifies disparities in traffic handling across PoPs, exemplified by the Miami PoP's broad regional coverage despite serving fewer users compared to other PoPs like Seattle.

Implications

The implications of this research extend both practically and theoretically. Practically, the comprehensive mapping of Starlink's infrastructure can inform network optimization strategies and regulatory considerations concerning spectrum use and potential service disruptions. Theoretically, this paper sets a precedent for empirical network measurement within LEO satellite networks, which could underpin further research into network reliability, latency optimization, and overall performance in satellite-based internet services.

Future Directions

Given the advancements in IPv6 measurement strategies underscored by this paper, future research could pivot toward comparative analyses involving other LEO networks to understand competitive structures and service efficacy. Additionally, improvements in geographic granularity of user location data and expansion of measurement infrastructure across underrepresented areas in the network could yield even more detailed insights into global connectivity patterns.

The authors have contributed significantly to the field of satellite internet research by offering a well-documented dataset that future studies can utilize, ensuring that investigations into LEO satellite networks continue to be data-driven and comprehensively scoped. This investigation provides a robust framework for understanding how modern satellite networks can be structured and analyzed effectively using IPv6-based technologies.