# Integrating Terrestrial and Non-terrestrial Networks: 3D Opportunities and Challenges

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2207.10385 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2207.10385/

## Key facts

- Cited by 3 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 21 Jul 2022.

## Built on by (most cited first, 3 of 3)

- [Strategic Demand-Planning in Wireless Networks: Can Generative-AI Save Spectrum and Energy?](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2407.02292/) (2024)
- [Constellation as a Service: Tailored Connectivity Management in Direct-Satellite-to-Device Networks](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2507.00902/) (2025)
- [Carbon-Aware Orchestration of Integrated Satellite Aerial Terrestrial Networks via Digital Twin](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2510.17825/) (2025)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Integrating terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks has the potential of connecting the unconnected and enhancing the user experience for the already-connected, with technological and societal implications of the greatest long-term significance. A convergence of ground, air, and space wireless communications also represents a formidable endeavor for the mobile and satellite communications industries alike, as it entails defining and intelligently orchestrating a new 3D wireless network architecture. In this article, we present the key opportunities and challenges arising from this (r)evolution by presenting some of its disruptive use-cases and key building blocks, reviewing the relevant standardization activities, and pointing to open research problems. By considering two multi-operator paradigms, we also showcase how terrestrial networks could be efficiently re-engineered to cater for aerial services, or opportunistically complemented by non-terrestrial infrastructure to augment their current capabilities.