Spectrum Sharing in the Sky and Space: A Survey

Area of Science:

• Telecommunications Engineering
• Wireless Communication Systems
• Network Architecture

Background:

• The sixth-generation (6G) mobile communication system aims for seamless wireless coverage.
• Aerial and space networks face spectrum congestion due to increasing wireless devices.
• Spectrum shortages necessitate new frequency bands for space networks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of spectrum sharing between aerial/space and ground networks.
• To summarize state-of-the-art studies on spectrum sharing techniques and applications.
• To identify challenges and provide guidance for spectrum allocation in integrated networks.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on spectrum sharing in integrated space-air-ground networks.
• Analysis of spectrum utilization rules, sharing modes, and key technologies.
• Examination of application scenarios for aerial and space networks.

Main Results:

• Spectrum sharing is identified as a key solution to address spectrum scarcity in integrated networks.
• Various spectrum sharing techniques, modes, and technologies are summarized.
• Key application scenarios for aerial and space networks within the integrated framework are presented.

Conclusions:

• Spectrum sharing between aerial/space and ground networks is vital for 6G realization.
• Addressing spectrum challenges requires a thorough understanding of current techniques and future needs.
• This review offers guidance for effective spectrum allocation and sharing in space-air-ground integrated networks.