R. R. P. Kumar¹ , S. Muknahallipatna² and J. E. McInroy^3
1National Center for Atmospheric Research, Colorado & Univ. of Wyoming, Wyoming ²Dept. of Electrical & Computer Engineering, University of Wyoming, Wyoming, USA ³Dept. of Electrical & Computer Engineering, University of Wyoming, Wyoming, USA

A multi-layered satellite network consisting of geosynchronous and nano-satellites is suited to perform space situational awareness. The nano-satellites collect information of space objects and transfer data to ground stations through the geosynchronous satellites. The dynamic topology of the network, large propagation delays and bulk data transfers results in a congested network. In this paper, we present a convex optimization based congestion control algorithm. Using snapshots of the network, operating parameters such as incoming, outgoing rates and buffer utilization are monitored. The operating parameters of a satellite are formulated as a convex function and using convex optimization techniques, the incoming data rates are evaluated to minimize congestion. Performance comparison of our algorithm with Transmission Control Protocol congestion control mechanism is presented. The simulation results show that our algorithm reduces congestion while facilitating higher transmission rates.

Congestion control, Convex Optimization, Multi-layered satellites..