LEO satellite communication networks—a routing approach

In the modern world of telecommunications, the concept of wireless global coverage is of the utmost importance. However, real global coverage can only be achieved by satellite systems. Until recently, the satellites were in geostationary orbit and their high altitude could not allow real‐time communication such as cellular networks. The development of LEO satellite networks seems to overcome this limit. However, LEO satellite systems have specific characteristics that need to be taken into account. In the same manner, the TCP/IP standard was developed for terrestrial network. The need is then to come up with a solution that would permit the use of TCP/IP on LEO satellite networks without losing too many packets. The idea is to develop a routing algorithm that maximizes the RTT delays compared to the TCP timer granularity. For that matter, we use an FSA‐based link assignment that simulates the satellite constellation as a fixed network for a predetermined time interval. In this configuration, the problem becomes a static routing problem where an algorithm can find the best solution. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

PERFORMANCE STUDY OF AN INTEGRATED SATELLITE/TERRESTRIAL MOBILE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM

Terrestrial cellular networks and mobile satellite systems are expected to converge towards a future integrated satellite/terrestrial mobile communication network. Besides a system globalization, the integration of terrestrial and satellite mobile systems will lead to the unloading of the fixed part of the mobile network. This paper proposes an integrated satellite/terrestrial mobile communication system and evaluates its performance in terms of the blocking probability for new call attempts, the call dropping probability and the probability of unsuccessful call. This communication system was simulated and its performence compared with that of a stand-alone terrestrial mobile system. In the terrestrial part of the system we have considered fixed channel allocation (FCA) and dynamic channel allocation (DCA) techniques. Satellite channels can have equal or lower priority compared to terrestrial channels. The improvement of the system performance by means of satellite-to-terrestrial handovers was also estimated.     

Emulation platform for inter-domain protocols validation of integrated space-terrestrial network

The inter-domain routing protocol is a key factor in the rapid integration of various satellite systems and heterogeneous networks in integrated space-terrestrial network (ISTN).However,the wide difference between network topologies of space and terrestrial networks may present significant challenges to the deployment of existing inter-domain protocols.To test the performance of these protocols,an emulation platform for ISTN was designed to efficiently emulate the dynamic and large-scale space network and the existing terrestrial networks using virtual network technology.Extensive experiments demonstrate that,with the expansion of the scale of space network and the scale of terrestrial Internet’s routing table,the integration efficiency between space and terrestrial networks becomes very low.     

卫星网络路由技术现状及展望

与地面固定通信网络不同,卫星网络的节点高度动态性、有限的星上处理能力和网络拓扑周期性变化的特点给卫星互联网的路由协议与算法设计带来了新的挑战。该文系统梳理了学术界针对卫星网络所提出的路由技术,提出了卫星路由技术未来的发展方向。首先介绍了卫星网络架构和目前在卫星通信系统上应用的主要路由协议,并且简要介绍了卫星光通信网络的路由问题;其次,根据卫星节点的管理方式以及路由表生成方式将路由算法分类为集中式卫星路由、分布式卫星路由以及混合式卫星路由,详细介绍了各类卫星路由方法的代表性成果并总结其优化目标和适用场景;接着,总结了不同卫星网络场景和网络需求下如何选择合适的卫星路由算法;最后,阐述目前卫星路由技术面临的挑战以及未来的发展趋势,并在附录中介绍了当前主流的卫星网络仿真平台。     

ATM‐based multimedia communication via NGSO‐satellites

Future broadband satellite networks for multimedia will be seamlessly integrated into terrestrial broadband networks which often use asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) and recently also the less complex multi protocol label switching (MPLS) technique as transmission and switching protocol. In light of this, future broadband satellite networks may adopt the ATM transmission scheme and implement ATM or ATM‐like switches on board the satellites. However, as compared to communication in fixed networks, satellite communication is characterized by special constraints (e.g. signal delay, channel quality, dynamic network topology) that require novel ATM‐based communication technology for satellite systems. This paper presents results from the ATM‐Sat project that aims to complete this technically challenging and important R&D task in the cooperation between DLR, Fraunhofer Gesellschaft and Tesat‐Spacecom. In brief the following aspects have been addressed in the ATM‐Sat project:

• development of the concept and communication technology for a multimedia satellite system with,
  • non‐geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellites;
  • inter satellite links (ISLs);
  • on‐board ATM switching;
  • fixed and mobile terminals;
• verification of the developed communication technology with a demonstrator.

In particular the ATM‐Sat R&D tasks cover the system and protocol architecture, on‐board processing, ISL routing, up/downlink and on board ATM resource management (including medium access control), error control, IP over satellite‐ATM, and active intelligent antennas. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Performance evaluation of adaptive routing algorithms in packet‐switched intersatellite link networks

This paper addresses the performance evaluation of adaptive routing algorithms in non‐geostationary packet‐switched satellite communication systems. The dynamic topology of satellite networks and variable traffic load in satellite coverage areas, due to the motion of satellites in their orbit planes, pose stringent requirements to routing algorithms. We have limited the scope of our interest to routing in the intersatellite link (ISL) segment. In order to analyse the applicability of different routing algorithms used in terrestrial networks, and to evaluate the performance of new algorithms designed for satellite networks, we have built a simulation model of a satellite communication system with intersatellite links. In the paper, we present simulation results considering a network‐uniform source/destination distribution model and a uniform source–destination traffic flow, thus showing the inherent routing characteristics of a selected Celestri‐like LEO satellite constellation. The updates of the routing tables are centrally calculated according to the Dijkstra shortest path algorithm. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Minimum flow maximum residual routing in LEO satellite networks using routing set

Satellite networks are used as backup networks to the terrestrial communication systems. In this work, we tried to find a routing strategy over dynamic satellite systems to better utilize the capacity of the network. The satellite networks are not affected by natural disasters, therefore they can be used widely during and after disasters. The Minimum Flow Maximum Residual (MFMR) routing algorithm over the Routing Set boundaries is proposed in order to better utilize the capacity of the system by distributing the load over the shortest path alternatives of the system. We assumed the satellite network as having finite states and formulated the problem by using Finite State Automation concept along with earth-fixed cell strategy by using a virtual satellite network model. The routing problem in satellite networks is previously studied in the literature and it is conjectured that the problem is NP-Hard. The online and offline problems are stated and the MFMR algorithm is described in detail. The algorithm is compared with alternatives by simulating the network on Opnet Modeler. Finally, the performance analysis of different scenarios is given in this work. Roy Kucukates received his BS, MS and PhD degrees in computer engineering from Bogazici University, Istanbul, in 1993, 1995 and 2002, respectively. He worked as teaching assistant in Bogazici University between 1993 and 1995. Currently, he is a part time instructor in the Computer Engineering Department of Koc University and Dogus University. He is the co-founder and manager of Gordion Bilgi Hizmet Ltd Sti. LEO satellite networks, wireless networks, simulation and performance evaluationl, routing protocols can be stated among his research areas. Cem Ersoy received his BS and MS degrees in electrical engineering from Bogazici University, Istanbul, in 1984 and 1986, respectively. He worked as an R&D engineer in NETAS A.S. between 1984 and 1986. He received his PhD in electrical engineering from Polytechnic University, Brooklyn, New York in 1992. Currently, he is a professor and department head in the Computer Engineering Department of Bogazici University. His research interests include performance evaluation and topological design of communication networks, wireless communications and mobile applications. Wireless sensor networks. Dr. Ersoy is a Senior Member of IEEE.     

High-speed satellite mobile communications: technologies and challenges

Central features of future 4G mobile communication systems are high-speed data transmission (up to 1 Gb/s) and interactive multimedia services. For effective delivery of these services, the network must satisfy some stringent QoS metrics, defined typically in terms of maximum delay and/or minimum throughput. Mobile satellite systems will be fully integrated with the terrestrial cellular systems to provide ubiquitous global coverage to diverse users. The challenges for future broadband satellite systems, therefore, lie in the proper deployment of state-of-the-art satellite technologies to ensure seamless integration of the satellite networks into the cellular systems and its QoS frameworks, while achieving, as far as possible, efficient use of satellite link resources. The paper presents an overview of future high-speed satellite mobile communication systems, the technologies deployed or planned for deployment, and the challenges. Focusing in particular on nonlinear downlink channel behavior, shadowing and multipath fading, various physical channel models for characterizing the mobile satellite systems are presented. The most prominent technologies used in the physical layer, such as coding and modulation schemes, multiple-access techniques, diversity combining, etc., are then discussed in the context of satellite systems. High-speed and QoS-specific technologies, such as onboard processing and switching, mobility and resource management, IP routing and cross-layer designs, employed in the satellite systems are also discussed.     

IP路由协议在MF-TDMA卫星系统中适应性研究

MF-TDMA卫星通信系统可以实现卫星资源的有效利用和灵活组网,具有很大的潜在应用市场。同时,以IP技术为核心的宽带网络迅速发展,卫星通信作为一种广域网手段,实现对IP业务的接入,是其发展的必然趋势。主要研究了目前地面网络中常用的几种IP路由协议在MF-TDMA卫星通信系统中的适应性,利用OPNET网络仿真软件对MF-TDMA卫星通信系统进行仿真建模。通过对仿真结果的分析,给出了适合MF-TDMA卫星通信环境下的IP路由协议。     

An IP transport and routing architecture for next-generationsatellite networks

Over the past several years, a number of new satellite systems have been proposed to provide high-speed Internet and multimedia services to businesses and home users. These proposals have been driven by the desire of network operators to reach end users that do not have cost effective access to other alternatives such as fiber, DSL, and cable, and by the availability of new spectrum (Ka-band) for use by new satellite services. The proposed systems generally employ multiple high-power spot beams, an onboard fast packet switch, and a demand-assigned multiple access scheme to provision IP-based services. In this article we concentrate on a geosynchronous satellite system where packet transport and switching within the satellite system are based on ATM. We describe an IP/ATM interworking and IP routing architecture that is driven by three main requirements: (1) the ability to support ATM SVCs between hundreds of thousands of satellite terminals by a single ATM switch located onboard; (2) a scalable IP routing architecture that does not result in large volumes of routing traffic to be transported over the satellite; and (3) the ability to segment the satellite terminals for routing and administrative control by ISPs and enterprise networks     

Satellite constellation of MEO and IGSO network routing with dynamic grouping

Because inter‐satellite links (ISLs) among the distributed satellite nodes can be used to support autonomous control in satellite system operation to reduce dependency on the ground stations, it becomes a popular communication paradigm for the future satellite systems. However, this introduces great technical challenges, particularly for routing protocol to support such space communication system. Facing the challenges, we present out study of routing technology in this paper tailored for satellite network of MEO (Table 1) and IGSO with ISLs in addition to satellite–ground links. The study aims to explore the routing strategies and algorithms of satellite network based on the evolution law of network topology to provide reference design for data exchange in autonomous satellite system. A comprehensive investigation, ranging from the analysis of relevant factors affecting data exchange in satellite networks to the primary application and resource constraints in designing satellite routing strategy, has been conducted. Our main contribution is to propose an on‐demand computing and caching centralized routing strategy and algorithm on the satellite network. The routing strategy and algorithm is designed for satellite network topology dynamic grouping. The route calculation for user data transmission is divided into three phases: direction estimation, direction enhancement, and congestion avoidance. The strategy and algorithm provide significant advantages of high efficiency, low complexity, and flexible configuration, by which the satellite networks can provide the features of flexible configure, efficient transferring, easy management, structural survivability, and great potential in scalability. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Analysis of heterogeneous satellite networks with multi‐user detectors

In this work, a heterogeneous network, where both terrestrial‐ and multiple spot beam‐based geosynchronous satellite networks use the same sub‐channel, is investigated. Moreover, the satellite uses same sub‐channel to serve users across all spot beams. Apart from inter spot beam interference, satellite users also receive strong interfering signal from the terrestrial base station. The satellite receivers manage the inter system interference (ie, interference from terrestrial network) while the inter spot beam interference is mitigated through precoding at the gateway. To be specific, the following interference‐aware detectors are used to mitigate the inter system interference: successive interference canceller (SIC) and joint decoder (JD). The proposed decoders are shown to achieve better data rate and bit error rate (BER) than the interference ignorant decoder at moderate to strong interference levels. Although JD and SIC achieve same sum rate at moderate and strong interference levels, JD is shown to allow the terrestrial user achieve higher data rate than SIC.     

Interworking of a satellite system for mobile multimediaapplications with the terrestrial networks

This paper deals with the interworking of a satellite system for mobile multimedia applications with the terrestrial environment. The concept of an “overlying network” is introduced with the aim of giving a common approach for the interworking of the considered satellite system with the various terrestrial networks (B-ISDN, N-ISDN, TCP/IP). The paper particularizes the introduced concept to the case in which the considered satellite system is interfaced with the broadband ISDN (B-ISDN)     

QoS Handover Management in LEO/MEO Satellite Systems

Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite networks are foreseen to complement terrestrial networks in future global mobile networks. Although space segment topology of a LEO network is characterized by periodic variations, connections of mobile stations (MSs) to the satellite backbone network alter stochastically. As a result the quality of service delivered to users may degrade. Different procedures have been proposed either as part of a resource allocation mechanism or as part of an end-to-end routing protocol to manage transitions of MSs from one satellite to another (handover). All of these techniques are based on the prioritization of requested handovers to ease network operation and therefore enhance provision of service. This paper proposes a new handover procedure that exploits all geometric characteristics of a satellite-to-MS connection to provide an equable handover in systems incorporating onboard processing satellites. Its performance is evaluated by simulations for a variety of satellite constellations to prove its general applicability. This revised version was published online in July 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.     

基于卫星移动通信的网络移动研究

文中研究了利用卫星移动通信支持网络移动的必要性,提出了利用卫星移动通信网扩展地面IP网覆盖范围的设想和实现方案,分析了该方案的特点及需要解决的关键技术问题,重点分析了卫星移动信道对TCP/IP协议的影响及网络移动过程中的连接和路由选择问题,卫星移动信道误码率、往返时延、变化率、信道不对称性及信道频繁通断对TCP/IP协议工作效率的影响,以及提供网络移动应解决的双重隧道问题。     

Network Control in ATM-Based LEO Satellite Networks

Low Earth Orbiting (LEO) satellite networks with on-board asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) switches hold the promise of offering an economically viable extension of terrestrial ATM systems by providing connectivity to areas where existing terrestrial networks are either infeasible or impractical. Network management in ATM LEO satellite networks is typically performed by the Network Control Center (NCC). The main contribution of this paper is to propose a network management system configuration with a stand-by solution and to describe an experimental Satellite Management Information Base (SMIB) that we have developed for implementation in ATM LEO satellite networks.     

Performance Modeling for Packet Networks with Satellite Overflow Channels

In a packet network using medium speed terrestrial connectivity, average end-to-end delay can be reduced by using highspeed satellite overflow channels despite their propagation delay. To investigate networks of this type analytically, we derive a new basic queueing model for overflow systems with buffered traffic. The simple, closed-form expressions facilitate analysis. Approximations are developed for multiple primary systems with a single overflow channel; these agree with simulation. Using the overflow model analysis indicated the following. The reduced queueing delay to the high capacity overflow channel more than compensated for propagation delay. Inherent, broadcast transmission capabilities of satellite channels reduced overall network delay. The high capacity overflow channels permit networks to withstand substantial nodal imbalance and overloads.     

Toward alternative high-speed network concepts: the SWIFTarchitecture

An approach to communication architectures for high-speed networks which provides efficient, adaptive communication for any traffic distribution is presented. It is based on a concept of dynamic sharing of communication resources which is obtained from the following three-tier SWIFT architecture. At the physical layer the high-speed communication system is based on the use of several lower speed channels or frequencies. At the data link layer, driven by hardware simplicity considerations, the SWIFT architecture uses a fixed time-slotted allocation of subchannels, in which each node is required to transmit or receive over only a single, predetermined, subchannel at a time. To provide adaptive channel access control, while preserving the data link hardware simplicity, a network layer is added. This layer introduces multihop adaptive channel (frequency) routing on the inherently broadcast communication medium. The routing concept provides dynamic sharing of communication channels and buffers, leading to a fully distributed adaptive bandwidth control. An analytic model for analyzing the performance of the multilayered architecture is developed. It shows that for homogeneous or heterogeneous traffic requirements the approach provides throughput/delay performance superior to that found in existing communication systems     

Interactive multimedia communication systems for next-generationeducation using asymmetrical satellite and terrestrial networks

We propose a new concept of a hierarchical network structure for remote education. This system combines broadband satellite networks and simple terrestrial communication networks effectively to meet the demands of point-to-multipoint communications. Remote education experiments have been conducted using the proposed satellite communication networks. The results of network characteristics and degree of satisfaction are discussed. Acceptable communication quality was achieved ensuring an interactive lecture environment