Foundational Algorithms, Protocols, and Systems for Multi-Tier 6G-NTN Integrated Communication and Environmental Sensing

Research Project, 2024 – 2028

The integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks (TN and NTN) in 6G, supported by key advancements such as the deployment of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations and the exploration of near-space through high altitude platform stations (HAPS), can play a major role in meeting the 6G vision for global coverage, sustainability and integrated communication and sensing. The design of such 3D multi-tier networks of networks (NoN), however, has to tackle multiple challenges in terms of performance, bandwidth and spectrum allocation, propagation environments and power constraints and energy efficiency. To tackle such challenges, 6G-NTN-E puts together a multi-disciplinary team of internationally leading researchers on signal processing, NTN architectures, network protocols, antenna design, optical systems and Earth remote sensing. Together we aim to significantly advance state of the art on the design of energy-efficient communication protocols and adaptive beamforming techniques for 3D multi-tier NoN to optimize resource usage, minimize power consumption, and maximize performance; design of mobility management and multi-connectivity strategies and enabling hybrid RF-optical technologies to ensure seamless, minimum-latency, high data rate connectivity, especially in challenging propagation conditions; and design of integrated 6G and sensing systems to enable simultaneous communication and real-time sensing of the environment.