Contents I. Introduction
Akey aspect in the development of future networks concerns the integration of sensing elements within a unified network infrastructure [1]. Coexisting systems, which leverage operational fiber infrastructure in carriers’ networks as both the sensing and transmitting medium, have already been successfully demonstrated for a multitude of sensing applications [2], [3]. To achieve precise, distributed sensing in telecom deployments for real-time monitoring of environmental parameters and disaster detection, as well as performance characteristics, optical sensors can be integrated into the optical link [4]. However, a main drawback of demonstrated work arises from the lack of flexibility and reliability of installations in rural locations such as mountains, rivers, volcanos or the absence of infrastructure in remote areas. A promising solution to overcome these constraints is the combination of the fiber network with free-space optical (FSO) transmission channels, enabling 6G deployments [5] that support integration of sensors and optical communication in previously inaccessible locations () [6]. This hybrid approach not only improves the coverage area of optical networks but also eliminates the need for costly and time-consuming fiber installations in challenging environments.
