An approach to QoS-based routing for LEO satellite networks

We propose a routing methodology for multi-hop LEO satellite networks aiming at minimising the number of link handovers per connection, while at the same time satisfying the QoS requirements. For the representation of the network topology, a graph-theoretical approach is used, where a new metric for inter-satellite links, called lifetime t/sub L/, is introduced. This metric is then considered for the minimisation of connection re-routing attempts due to the connectivity changes, for which a network graph transformation approach is proposed. In addition to this, we propose a distributed QoS routing strategy for LEO satellite networks, where the accommodation of different QoS requirements such as bandwidth or delay presume the maximisation of the lifetime of inter-satellite links (ISL), building a feasible path.