A feedback suppression algorithm for reliable satellite multicast based on spatial-temporal prediction of the satellite channel

The major problem limiting the scalability of large-scale multicast satellite networks is feedback implosion that arises whenever a large number of users simultaneously transmit feedback messages (FBMs) through the network, thus occupying a significant portion of satellite system resources. In satellite networks operating above 10GHz, attenuation due to rain constitutes the dominant fading mechanism deteriorating the quality of service. In this paper, a novel scheme for providing large-scale reliable multicast services through a star-based geostationary satellite topology is presented incorporating accurate channel modeling of the propagation phenomena. The new protocol is based on the selection of an area representative that provides quick FBMs aiming at Suppressing FBMs originating from the rest of the network users. The scheme provides a timely reaction to changes of either the channel conditions or the network topology by properly updating the selection of representatives. Through appropriate simulations, comparisons and examples it is demonstrated that the new approach suppresses FBMs very effectively. Copyright (C) 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.