Link Reassignment based Snapshot Partition for Polar-orbit LEO Satellite Networks

TL;DR

This paper introduces a quasi-dynamic snapshot partition method for polar-orbit LEO satellite networks that improves routing stability and ISL utilization by reassigning inter-satellite links during snapshot switches using phased-array antennas.

Contribution

It proposes a novel snapshot partition approach leveraging phased-array antennas for dynamic ISL reassignment, enhancing routing performance in LEO satellite networks.

Findings

Achieves more stable routing with constant snapshot duration and ISL count.

Reduces end-to-end delay in satellite communication.

Increases ISL utilization, especially for Iridium systems.

Abstract

Snapshot is a fundamental notion proposed for routing in mobile low earth orbit (LEO) satellite networks which is characterized with predictable topology dynamics. Its distribution has a great impact on the routing performance and on-board storage. Originally, the snapshot distribution is invariable by using the static snapshot partition method based on the mechanical steering antenna. Utilizing nowadays advanced phased-array antenna technology, we proposed a quasi-dynamic snapshot partition method based on the inter-satellite links (ISLs) reassignment for the polar-orbit LEO satellite networks. By steering the inter-satellite antennas when snapshot switches, we can reassign the ISLs and add available ISLs for a better following snapshot. Results show that our method can gain more stable routing performance by obtaining constant snapshot duration, constant ISL number and lower end to end delay. Especially for Iridium system, our method can gain not only longer merged snapshot duration, half of the snapshot number, but also higher utilization ratio of inter-plane ISLs. Potentially, our method could be very useful for the Iridium-next system.