03/19/2026
By Danielle Fretwell
The Francis College of Engineering, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, invites you to attend a Master's Thesis defense by layann Shaban on: "Control-Plane Resilience in Space Networks Simulators Development."
Candidate Name: layann Shaban
Degree: Master’s
Defense Date: Tuesday, March 24, 2026
Time: Noon - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Ball Hall 302
Committee:
- Advisor: Lewis Tseng, Associate Professor, Electrical & Computer Engineering, UMass Lowell
- Yan Luo, Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Robotics, UMass Lowell
- Chunxiao (Tricia) Chigan, Professor, Electrical & Computer Engineering, UMass Lowell
Abstract:
This thesis focuses on improving communication in space networks, where satellites and other systems must exchange information despite limited power, changing connections, long delays, and frequent disruptions. Traditional communication methods often assume stable connections, but space environments are much more unpredictable. To address this challenge, this research develops a simulation framework that models how information can be shared efficiently and reliably in these difficult conditions. The work studies ways to spread small but important updates quickly across the network while reducing unnecessary communication and conserving energy. It also examines how larger data can be requested only when needed, helping the network balance speed, reliability, and resource use. By comparing different communication strategies, the research shows how smarter, lightweight information sharing can improve awareness, reduce delay, and make better use of limited energy. Overall, this thesis provides a practical tool for studying resilient and efficient space-network communication and offers design insights for future satellite and delay-tolerant network systems.