High Altitude Edge Computing-Enabled Integrated Networks for 6G Communications

The development of non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) and their integration with terrestrial networks is a potential research area in sixth-generation (6G) networks. NTNs are favored for their cost-effective on-demand deployment and aim to provide ubiquitous coverage, uninterrupted connectivity, and efficient edge computing capabilities. In addition, the evolution of versatile aerial platforms with diverse capabilities has ushered in an era of many unexplored possibilities and applications. In this article, we provide a tutorial overview of aerial access and edge computing networks. Specifically, we explore different variants of aerial edge computing based on airborne entities and identify the potential application areas facilitated by this technology. Additionally, owing to the unmatched effectiveness of non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA), we present a case study on a high-altitude edge computing (HAEC)-enabled integrated network exploiting the millimeter wave (mmWave) frequency range. Lastly, we highlight the challenges along with subsequent strategies for implementing this advanced concept into real-world applications.