Research on Inter-Layer Link Switching Methods in Dual-Layer Satellite Networks

The entire satellite constellation is connected through inter-satellite links, allowing for the transmission of information in space with low latency. However, inter-satellite links between satellites at different altitudes face high-dynamic switching issues. To address this, we have proposed a multi-objective optimization method for inter-layer link switching based on multi-window synchronization. This method aims to efficiently connect dual-layer constellation networks. Firstly, we considered the differences in the dual-layer network's structure, satellite visibility between layers, and constraints of switchable inter-layer links to establish a system model for inter-layer links. In response to the frequent switching issues of high-dynamic network topologies, we designed a multi-objective optimization method for inter-layer link switching based on window synchronization. Finally, we conducted simulation verification of the proposed method. The simulation results demonstrate that our method can reduce the frequency of topology switching in high-dynamic networks by 60% to 90% over a long period, thereby reducing the maintenance overhead of network topology updates compared to time or distance optimization methods.