RIS-assisted space-air-ground integrated networks : new horizons for flexible access and connectivity

Bariah, Lina and Mohjazi, Lina and Abumarshoud, Hanaa and Selim, Bassant and Muhaidat, Sami and Tatipamula, Mallik and Imran, Muhammad Ali and Haas, Harald (2023) RIS-assisted space-air-ground integrated networks : new horizons for flexible access and connectivity. IEEE Network, 37 (3). pp. 118-125. ISSN 1558-156X (https://doi.org/10.1109/mnet.123.2100761)

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Abstract

Space-air-ground integrated network (SAGIN) has emerged as a paradigm shifting architecture that offers large-scale, flexible wireless coverage and seamless, high-rate connectivity to complement terrestrial communications. Nonetheless, unlocking the potentials of SAGIN is subject to addressing non-trivial challenges associated with their inherent time-variability, self-organization, and heterogeneity. Meanwhile, the concept of reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RISs) is recognized as a disruptive technology that supports an unprecedented control of electromagnetic waves propagation and potentially offers significant enhancements in spectral efficiency, coverage expansion, and security, all achieved in a low-cost and energy-efficient manner. We anticipate that the integration of RISs into SAGIN will not only play a fundamental role in improving the quality of inter- and intra-layer communications, but will also provide complex interactions among the three network segments, and, hence, opens the horizons for a new breed of applications across all industries. In this article, we explore the underlying opportunities and challenges of integrating RIS-enabled communications into SAGIN, and present a forward-looking overview of the cross-layer operational elements supported by RISs. Finally, we outline major enabling technologies and present a look ahead toward addressing open research issues.

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