Analysis, Design and Optimization of Non-Terrestrial Networks for 6G

Next-generation wireless networks aim to provide extremely high data rates, ultra-low latency, and massive connectivity. Achieving global broadband coverage remains a major challenge, particularly in remote and maritime areas, due to the limitations of terrestrial infrastructure. Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) , including satellites, high-altitude platforms, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), offer a promising solution to complement terrestrial networks, supporting applications ranging from Internet of Things (IoT) and Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) services to smart-city functionalities in underserved areas, and ensuring service continuity in emergency situations. This dissertation investigates solutions based on NTNs and Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) systems to extend coverage and support latency-sensitive applications. It introduces Questset, a VR dataset for analyzing network performance and user experience, and develops methods for satellite-based edge computing, Time Division Duplexing (TDD) adaptation in NTN scenarios, and Low-Power Wide-Area Network (LPWAN) integration for IoT. Furthermore, an end-to-end IAB simulator is presented to evaluate maritime network deployments. Simulation results demonstrate that these approaches can significantly enhance coverage, reduce latency, and enable emerging 6th generation (6G) applications in challenging environments.