PMIPv6-based IP mobility management over regenerative satellite mesh networks

New generation of satellite systems with on-board processing (switching/routing) and support for multiple spot beams will play a key role in the provision of mobile and ubiquitous Internet-based communications. To achieve this `anywhere anytime´ communication in a global multi-beam satellite network with many gateways (GWs), the challenges of beam, gateway and satellite handovers faced by the satellite terminals mounted on mobile platforms such as long haul flights, global maritime vessels and continental trains must be adequately dealt with. Network-based localised mobility protocol proxy mobile IPv6 (PMIPv6) where the IP mobility procedures are relocated from the mobile nodes to the network components has been defined by the IETF for terrestrial networks. This paper proposes how the concept of PMIPv6 could be used to support IP mobility in a mesh regenerative multi-beam satellite network. What makes this proposed approach different from that defined by the IETF is the absence of tunnelling throughout the system and the difference in the roles played by the mobility agents.