IP multicast architectures over next-generation GEO satellites

The article proposes a new approach for IP multicast networks using a geostationary satellite. An overview of the current use of satellites for the Internet is presented. It describes the interaction between the network and link layers and underlines the limits of current solutions, i.e., the use of a transparent payload and multi protocol encapsulation (MPE). Then, solutions are proposed, presenting the use of an on-board intelligence and of a more interactive standard than DVB-S, namely DVB-RCS (DVB-return-channel-for-satellite). The paper sets out to study a system conveying multicast streams over an on-board-switching GEO satellite. We study the implementation of both an encapsulation and a signalisation protocol adapted to the system, focusing on the on-board-switching. Eventually, as food for thought, the adaptation of terrestrial protocols in this framework is brought up.