A synchronization-based scheme for simultaneous full-and half-duplex communication in GSM-based MEO mobile satellite networks

Existing terrestrial radio networks are destined to integrate with satellite systems in order to provide global coverage. To provide communication services for mobile and hand-held terminals, the radio link design must permit the user terminal (UT) to operate both in full- and half-duplex mode, the latter being desirable when power limitations are imposed. We propose a scheme which achieves this goal and guarantees diversity provision in the most efficient way in the case of half-duplex mode. Moreover, spatial channel balancing is achieved within the satellite footprint, by partitioning channels into classes, each of which involves the same synchronization at the satellite antenna interface. The new scheme, which is directly applicable in MEO mobile satellite systems, is defined explicitly and specific assignment methods leading to reliable resource allocation are presented.