Abstract: In satellite based communication systems (30), real time monitoring of communication links (23-25) and the subsequent adaptations to overcome problems with certain links (23,25) provides the communication system (30) with the ability to adapt to changing conditions. A satellite-based communication system (30) can be adapted to provide an improved method for establishing communication links (23,25) between ground stations (14) and space-based satellite switches (11). Common earth-based termination nodes are replaced by intelligent switches (14). Alternate links are established using links (20,21) between intelligent space-based switches (11), links (24) between intelligent earth-based switches (14), and links (23,25) between intelligent space-based switches (11) and intelligent earth-based switches (14). The controller (54) in the intelligent earth-based switch (14) allows the system to automatically adapt to failure, overload, and other conditions.

Abstract: In a packet network, message packets (130) are comprised of vacant or unused bits for future system enhancements or for remedying unknown design oversights or utilizing vacant portions of fixed length data packets. Furthermore, message packets (130) comprise a message type identifier distinguishing message architecture. A transmit and receive packet network node (100) maintains an unused bit catalog (125) listing vacant or unused bits of particular message packet types. When a message packet type having vacant or unused bits is detected propagating through the packet network, background data is retrieved from a transmit background data queue (115) and interleaved into such message packets to form enriched message packets (130') for transportation through the packet network. Receiving packet network nodes (100) detect enriched message packets (130') and extract and buffer the background data.