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

Bariah, L., Mohjazi, L. , Abumarshoud, H. , Selim, B., Muhaidat, S., Tatipamula, M., Imran, M. A. and Haas, H. (2022) RIS-assisted space-air-ground integrated networks: new horizons for flexible access and connectivity. IEEE Network, (doi: 10.1109/MNET.123.2100761) (Early Online Publication)

Abstract

Space-air-ground integrated network (SAGIN) has emerged as a paradigm shifting architecture that offers largescale, flexible wireless coverage and seamless, high-rate connectivity to complement terrestrial communications. Nonetheless, unlocking the potentials of SAGIN is subject to addressing nontrivial 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 interand 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 crosslayer operational elements supported by RISs. Finally, we outline major enabling technologies and present a look ahead toward addressing open research issues.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Early Online Publication
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Bariah, Dr Lina and Imran, Professor Muhammad and Tatipamula, Dr Mallik and Abumarshoud, Dr Hanaa and Mohjazi, Dr Lina
• Authors: Bariah, L., Mohjazi, L., Abumarshoud, H., Selim, B., Muhaidat, S., Tatipamula, M., Imran, M. A., and Haas, H.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering; College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Autonomous Systems and Connectivity
• Journal Name: IEEE Network
• Publisher: IEEE
• ISSN: 0890-8044
• ISSN (Online): 1558-156X
• Published Online: 26 September 2022
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2022 IEEE
• First Published: First published in IEEE Network 2022
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher