Research on clustering algorithm for space information networks

Space information networks, which have become a popular research focus, are a new type of self-organizing net work constituted by information systems of land, sea, air and space. A clustering algorithm for space information networks was proposed to enhance network scalability. Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was used to select cluster heads, and then non overlapping k-hop clusters could be formed. With taking node mobility and cluster equalization of space information networks into account, mobile agents were used to migrate and duplicate functions of cluster heads in a recruiting way. Dynamical maintaining mechanisms like cluster merger/partition, reaffiliation and adaptive adjustment of information update period were also designed. Simulation results show the proposed clustering algorithm is suitable for use in space information networks and it can improve network scalability.