An Integrated Architecture of RIS-based Non-Terrestrial Networks with 6G for Rural Communications

Approximately 66% of the global population has internet access, while a considerable portion of people still reside in rural areas. It is challenging to provide communication services to everyone everywhere because of the dispersed population, low literacy rates, and inadequate infrastructure. The advancement of wireless communication technologies, including mobile and satellite communication, also brings benefits to rural communities. These technologies foster social inclusion, better education, greater access to healthcare, increased economic growth, and innovation potential. This article examines the non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) architecture based on Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) for 6G scenarios and communication systems in rural areas.