Network architecture for satellite aided ISDN network: one approach for satellite-terrestrial integrated network

The authors describe a method of integrating nonhierarchical satellite communication systems into hierarchical ISDN networks (integrated services digital networks). The configurations of a satellite-terrestrial integrated network are classified into four basic forms. A new application of subscriber/transit integrated communication networks that combines the basic forms is proposed. With a new concept called virtual transit switching these networks can realize farthest-end routing without modifying the existing call control scheme for terrestrial networks. An ISDN-oriented, satellite dedicated network based on this concept is also proposed. It is confirmed by network cost evaluation that a satellite-terrestrial integrated network is more desirable than independent terrestrial or satellite communication networks