Some research directions for future integrated satellite and terrestrial networks

This paper explores the future architecture possibilities of an integrated satellite and terrestrial network using new and radical technology building blocks such as: multiple-access, multi-beam RF satellite communications, wireless communications, free space optical communications, all-optical network transport/switching and analog transmission and processing over optical carriers that support coherent distributed platform sensing and communications. Not only can the future network performance and cost undergo quantum-leap improvements; such a network can have profound transforming effects on space and terrestrial system architectures for sensing, healthcare, early warning systems, disaster relief, research collaborations and other new commercial applications.