Non-Terrestrial Networks

This course explores the concept of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs), a revolutionary approach to wireless communication that utilizes satellites, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and high-altitude platform stations (HAPS) to deliver wide-area coverage, particularly in remote or underserved areas.

• Introduction to Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs): Key concepts, satellite networks, UAV-based communication, and HAPS,
• Satellite Communication Systems: LEO (Low Earth Orbit), MEO (Medium Earth Orbit), and GEO (Geostationary Orbit) satellites and their impact on global communication,
• UAV and HAPS-Based Communication: The role of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and high-altitude platforms (HAPS) in wireless networks,
• Integration of NTNs with Terrestrial Networks: Seamless connectivity between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, handover management, and interference mitigation,
• Key Challenges in NTN Deployment: Capacity, coverage, latency, and energy consumption for satellite, UAV, and HAPS systems,
• Communication Technologies in NTNs: The use of multibeam antennas, inter-satellite links (ISLs), and frequency spectrum management for NTN systems,
• NTN in 5G/6G Systems: How NTNs are integrated into 5G and 6G architectures, enhancing mobility, broadband access, and IoT applications,
• Applications of NTNs: Global broadband connectivity, disaster recovery, remote area communications, and emergency services,
• Future Trends in Non-Terrestrial Networks: The role of satellite constellations, AI/ML for network management, and integration with quantum communication technologies

• Wireless communication engineers working on 5G/6G, satellite links, or wide-area connectivity solutions

• Satellite and aerospace engineers involved in LEO/MEO/GEO constellations, payload design, and space-ground integration

• UAV and HAPS system designers developing aerial communication platforms and coverage optimization strategies

• Telecom network planners and operators focusing on rural connectivity, mobility management, and seamless handover between terrestrial and non-terrestrial segments

• Researchers and graduate students in telecommunications, electrical/electronics engineering, aerospace engineering, and network technologies

• IoT and smart-infrastructure developers requiring global or remote-area connectivity solutions

• Policy makers, consultants, and technology strategists evaluating next-generation connectivity ecosystems and spectrum utilization