LEO Satellite-Enabled Random Access with Large Differential Delay and Doppler Shift

This paper investigates joint device identification, channel estimation, and symbol detection for LEO satellite-enabled grant-free random access systems, specifically targeting scenarios where remote Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices operate without global navigation satellite system (GNSS) assistance. Considering the constrained power consumption of these devices, the large differential delay and Doppler shift are handled at the satellite receiver. We firstly propose a spreading-based multi-frame transmission scheme with orthogonal time-frequency space (OTFS) modulation to mitigate the doubly dispersive effect in time and frequency, and then analyze the input-output relationship of the system. Next, we propose a receiver structure based on three modules: a linear module for identifying active devices that leverages the generalized approximate message passing algorithm to eliminate inter-user and inter-carrier interference; a non-linear module that employs the message passing algorithm to jointly estimate the channel and detect the transmitted symbols; and a third module that aims to exploit the three dimensional block channel sparsity in the delay-Doppler-angle domain. Soft information is exchanged among the three modules by careful message scheduling. Furthermore, the expectation-maximization algorithm is integrated to adjust phase rotation caused by the fractional Doppler and to learn the hyperparameters in the priors. Finally, the convolutional neural network is incorporated to enhance the symbol detection. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed transmission scheme boosts the system performance, and the designed algorithms outperform the conventional methods significantly in terms of the device identification, channel estimation, and symbol detection.

Massive MIMO-OTFS-Based Random Access for Cooperative LEO Satellite Constellations

This paper investigates joint device identification, channel estimation, and symbol detection for cooperative multi-satellite-enhanced random access, where orthogonal time-frequency space modulation with the large antenna array is utilized to combat the dynamics of the terrestrial-satellite links (TSLs). We introduce the generalized complex exponential basis expansion model to parameterize TSLs, thereby reducing the pilot overhead. By exploiting the block sparsity of the TSLs in the angular domain, a message passing algorithm is designed for initial channel estimation. Subsequently, we examine two cooperative modes to leverage the spatial diversity within satellite constellations: the centralized mode, where computations are performed at a high-power central server, and the distributed mode, where computations are offloaded to edge satellites with minimal signaling overhead. Specifically, in the centralized mode, device identification is achieved by aggregating backhaul information from edge satellites, and channel estimation and symbol detection are jointly enhanced through a structured approximate expectation propagation (AEP) algorithm. In the distributed mode, edge satellites share channel information and exchange soft information about data symbols, leading to a distributed version of AEP. The introduced basis expansion model for TSLs enables the efficient implementation of both centralized and distributed algorithms via fast Fourier transform. Simulation results demonstrate that proposed schemes significantly outperform conventional algorithms in terms of the activity error rate, the normalized mean squared error, and the symbol error rate. Notably, the distributed mode achieves performance comparable to the centralized mode with only two exchanges of soft information about data symbols within the constellation.

Ubiquitous Integrated Sensing and Communications for Massive MIMO LEO Satellite Systems

The next sixth generation (6G) networks are envisioned to integrate sensing and communications in a single system, thus greatly improving spectrum utilization and reducing hardware costs. Low earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications combined with massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology holds significant promise in offering ubiquitous and seamless connectivity with high data rates. Existing integrated sensing and communications (ISAC) studies mainly focus on terrestrial systems, while operating ISAC in massive MIMO LEO satellite systems is promising to provide high-capacity communication and flexible sensing ubiquitously. In this paper, we first give an overview of LEO satellite systems and ISAC and consider adopting ISAC in the massive MIMO LEO satellite systems. Then, the recent research advances are presented. A discussion on related challenges and key enabling technologies follows. Finally, we point out some open issues and promising research directions.

Enhancing Indoor and Outdoor THz Communications with Beyond Diagonal-IRS: Optimization and Performance Analysis

This work investigates the application of Beyond Diagonal Intelligent Reflective Surface (BD-IRS) to enhance THz downlink communication systems, operating in a hybrid: reflective and transmissive mode, to simultaneously provide services to indoor and outdoor users. We propose an optimization framework that jointly optimizes the beamforming vectors and phase shifts in the hybrid reflective/transmissive mode, aiming to maximize the system sum rate. To tackle the challenges in solving the joint design problem, we employ the conjugate gradient method and propose an iterative algorithm that successively optimizes the hybrid beamforming vectors and the phase shifts. Through comprehensive numerical simulations, our findings demonstrate a significant improvement in rate when compared to existing benchmark schemes, including time- and frequency-divided approaches, by approximately $30.5\%$ and $70.28\%$ respectively. This underscores the significant influence of IRS elements on system performance relative to that of base station antennas, highlighting their pivotal role in advancing the communication system efficacy.

Integrated Communications and Localization for Massive MIMO LEO Satellite Systems

Integrated communications and localization (ICAL) will play an important part in future sixth generation (6G) networks for the realization of Internet of Everything (IoE) to support both global communications and seamless localization. Massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) low earth orbit (LEO) satellite systems have great potential in providing wide coverage with enhanced gains, and thus are strong candidates for realizing ubiquitous ICAL. In this paper, we develop a wideband massive MIMO LEO satellite system to simultaneously support wireless communications and localization operations in the downlink. In particular, we first characterize the signal propagation properties and derive a localization performance bound. Based on these analyses, we focus on the hybrid analog/digital precoding design to achieve high communication capability and localization precision. Numerical results demonstrate that the proposed ICAL scheme supports both the wireless communication and localization operations for typical system setups.

Joint Computation and Communication Resource Optimization for Beyond Diagonal UAV-IRS Empowered MEC Networks

Intelligent Reconfigurable Surfaces (IRS) are crucial for overcoming challenges in coverage, capacity, and energy efficiency beyond 5G (B5G). The classical IRS architecture, employing a diagonal phase shift matrix, hampers effective passive beamforming manipulation. To unlock its full potential, Beyond Diagonal IRS (BD-IRS or IRS 2.0) emerges as a revolutionary member, transcending limitations of the diagonal IRS. This paper introduces BD-IRS deployed on unmanned aerial vehicles (BD-IRS-UAV) in Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) networks. Here, users offload tasks to the MEC server due to limited resources and finite battery life. The objective is to minimize worst-case system latency by optimizing BD-IRS-UAV deployment, local and edge computational resource allocation, task segmentation, power allocation, and received beamforming vector. The resulting non-convex/non-linear NP-hard optimization problem is intricate, prompting division into two subproblems: 1) BD-IRS-UAV deployment, local and edge computational resources, and task segmentation, and 2) power allocation, received beamforming, and phase shift design. Standard optimization methods efficiently solve each subproblem. Monte Carlo simulations provide numerical results, comparing the proposed BD-IRS-UAV-enabled MEC optimization framework with various benchmarks. Performance evaluations include comparisons with fully-connected and group-connected architectures, single-connected diagonal IRS, and binary offloading, edge computation, fixed computation, and local computation frameworks. Results show a 7.25% lower latency and a 17.77% improvement in data rate with BD-IRS compared to conventional diagonal IRS systems, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed optimization framework.

Deep Reinforcement Learning for Backscatter Communications: Augmenting Intelligence in Future Internet of Things

Backscatter communication (BC) technology offers sustainable solutions for next-generation Internet-of-Things (IoT) networks, where devices can transmit data by reflecting and adjusting incident radio frequency signals. In parallel to BC, deep reinforcement learning (DRL) has recently emerged as a promising tool to augment intelligence and optimize low-powered IoT devices. This article commences by elucidating the foundational principles underpinning BC systems, subsequently delving into the diverse array of DRL techniques and their respective practical implementations. Subsequently, it investigates potential domains and presents recent advancements in the realm of DRL-BC systems. A use case of RIS-aided non-orthogonal multiple access BC systems leveraging DRL is meticulously examined to highlight its potential. Lastly, this study identifies and investigates salient challenges and proffers prospective avenues for future research endeavors.

Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces for 6G Non-Terrestrial Networks: Assisting Connectivity from the Sky

This paper studies the potential of RIS-integrated NTNs to revolutionize the next-generation connectivity. First, it discusses the fundamentals of RIS technology. Secondly, it delves into reporting the recent advances in RIS-enabled NTNs. Subsequently, it presents a novel framework based on the current state-of-the-art for low earth orbit satellites (LEO) communications, wherein the signal received at the user terminal traverses both a direct link and an RIS link, and the RIS is mounted on a high-altitude platform (HAP) situated within the stratosphere. Finally, the paper concludes by highlighting open challenges and future research directions to revolutionize the realm of RIS-integrated NTNs.

Full Duplex Joint Communications and Sensing for 6G: Opportunities and Challenges

The paradigm of joint communications and sensing (JCAS) envisions a revolutionary integration of communication and radar functionalities within a unified hardware platform. This novel concept not only opens up unprecedented possibilities, but also presents unique challenges. Its success is highly dependent on efficient full-duplex (FD) operation, which has the potential to enable simultaneous transmission and reception within the same frequency band. While ongoing research explores the potential of JCAS, there are related avenues of investigation that hold tremendous potential to profoundly transform the sixth generation (6G) and beyond cellular networks. This article sheds light on the new opportunities and challenges presented by JCAS by taking into account the key technical challenges of FD systems. Unlike simplified JCAS scenarios, we delve into the most comprehensive configuration, encompassing uplink (UL) and downlink (DL) users, as well as monostatic and bistatic radars, all harmoniously coexisting to jointly push the boundaries of both the communications and sensing performance. The performance improvements introduced by this advancement bring forth numerous new challenges, each meticulously examined and expounded upon.

Joint Device Identification, Channel Estimation, and Signal Detection for LEO Satellite-Enabled Random Access

This paper investigates joint device identification, channel estimation, and signal detection for LEO satellite-enabled grant-free random access, where a multiple-input multipleoutput (MIMO) system with orthogonal time-frequency space modulation (OTFS) is utilized to combat the dynamics of the terrestrial-satellite link (TSL). We divide the receiver structure into three modules: first, a linear module for identifying active devices, which leverages the generalized approximate message passing (GAMP) algorithm to eliminate inter-user interference in the delay-Doppler domain; second, a non-linear module adopting the message passing algorithm to jointly estimate channel and detect transmit signals; the third aided by Markov random field (MRF) aims to explore the three dimensional block sparsity of channel in the delay-Doppler-angle domain. The soft information is exchanged iteratively between these three modules by careful scheduling. Furthermore, the expectation-maximization algorithm is embedded to learn the hyperparameters in prior distributions. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed scheme outperforms the conventional methods significantly in terms of activity error rate, channel estimation accuracy, and symbol error rate.