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Satellite Networks &
Architectures Branch
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Our objective is to enhance, promote, and develop the use of communications
satellites in multicast applications. Hybrid networks that use both satellite
and terrestrial links provide a dynamic network architecture. These hybrid
networks have many distinct advantages over purely terrestrial networks.
Our goal is to advance the effect that a satellite link has on various
reliable multicast protocols and to develop efficient multicast
applications for use over these hybrid (satellite and terrestrial) networks.
Operating Multicast Backbone (MBone) tools
over the ACTS Satellite.
Currently, advanced communications satellites act as "switches in the sky."
We believe that for efficient use of multicast applications in satellites,
network satellites must also be "routers in the sky." Through experiments
with multicast applications, the level of routing that is necessary in a
satellite can be determined. Accordingly, recommendations to Internet
standards bodies and the U.S. satellite industry, on the minimal requirements
necessary for multicast applications, can be made.
Simulations are being developed to test the effect of a satellite
link on reliable multicast protocols. These simulations are being
conducted over networks of various sizes and characteristics. The
multicast sessions being characterized in these simulations vary in the
number of users and level of interactivity (lecture versus video
conference). During these simulations, we will determine
what network parameters must be adjusted in order to make multicast
applications over hybrid networks as efficient as possible.
William D. Ivancic
William.D.Ivancic@grc.nasa.gov
Telephone: (216) 433-3494
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