Packet switching in a processing satellite

This brief note represents a simple but significant change in the thinking that is applied to satellite packet switching. It demonstrates that in a processing satellite there is no fundamental limitation to the efficiency and throughput of packet switching systems. With a minimal impact on spacecraft weight and power, throughput is increased by providing more capacity on the uplink than on the downlink. Efficiency is increased because the power-intensive downlink is more fully utilized. A slotted ALOHA example is given to show how the performance can be made to go from that of conventional slotted ALOHA to that of a TDM system. Several possible variations and far-reaching implications are indicated.