The networking of dynamic satellite constellations in a global personal communication system

Networking issues relating to Personal Mobile Satellite Communication Systems are discussed in this paper. These issues are of direct relevance to the various Dynamic Satellite Constellations (DSCs) which have been proposed for such applications. A baseline DSC Network architecture is initially introduced and explained. Alternative Networking approaches to User Mobility Management and Network Resource Management are then described. Signalling overheads and protocol delay are the important parameters considered.