Abstract: A load balanced routing protocol named LBRD is proposed for double-layered satellite networks. Unlike conventional hierarchical routing protocols, LBRD uses independent geographic routing within the same layer and takes another layer as a complement in case of route failure. To alleviate uneven traffic distribution, neighbor load notification for a single congested node is adopted, while a district load balanced scheme for the overloaded area formed by several nodes is introduced. Routing paths would detour heavily-loaded districts by transforming distance between nodes, accelerating load recovery of those districts. Simulation results show that this protocol yields a more balanced distribution of traffic over the constellation and brings down packet drop rate and queuing delay due to congestion, guaranteeing network throughput.

Key words: Double-layered satellite networks, geoGraphic route, Load balance, Distance transform