Future satellite communications: Satellite constellations and connectivity from space

Satellite communications is currently undergoing a massive growth, with a rapid expansion in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) networks, and a range of new satellite technologies. Until very recently, satellite communication systems and terrestrial 5/6G wireless networks have been complementary distinct entities. There is now the opportunity to bring these networks together and deliver an integrated global coverage multi-service network. Achieving this will require solving some key research challenges, and leveraging new technologies including high frequency phased-array antennas, onboard processing, dynamic beam hopping, physical layer signal processing algorithms, transmission waveforms, and adaptive inter-satellite links and routing. By integrating seamlessly with terrestrial 5/6G networks and low altitude flying access points, future satellite networks promise to deliver universal connectivity on a global scale, overcoming geographical limitations. In this special issue, we focus on the future of satellite communications, exploring topics ranging from beam hopping and design to space routing and THz satellite communications. Our aim is to shed light on the potential of these emerging technologies and their role in reshaping the landscape of global connectivity.