Mobility management in an integrated GSM and satellite PCN

The aim of this paper is to provide a discussion of the mobility management for a combined GSM and satellite PCN achieving integration at network level. After illustrating the main differences and commonalities between non-cooperative, cooperative and UPT like data management for an integrated communication network the integration scenario chosen for the context of this paper is presented. A close look is taken at the concept of location areas within an integrated GSM and satellite PCN. Two different location area definitions with respective signaling analysis for two different satellite selection strategies are provided. The paper concludes with a summary of the results and an outlook into the field of future integrated terrestrial and mobile satellite system solutions.