A flexible routing architecture for ad hoc space networks

Future space missions are envisioned to be implemented using a flexible, distributed architecture consisting of constellations of dynamically deployed or configured space and mobile platforms that are networked together into an integrated information system, which we term an ad hoc space network. An ad hoc space network is characterized by changing topology and potentially sparse and intermittent connectivity, which pose unique challenges to routing. In this paper we describe a flexible routing architecture for ad hoc space networks, consisting of an interrogation-based relay routing mechanism and an attribute-based naming (AN) and intentional routing (IR) scheme. The interrogation-based relay routing mechanism allows satellites to buffer data and to interrogate each other so as to make intelligent routing decisions. The AN and IR scheme facilitate mission-specific routing capability. We present a simulation study of the effects of buffer space, satellite density, and orbital patterns on the throughput of the interrogation-based relay routing mechanism. 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.