SOFIA - Wireless communications and Sensing thrOught Flexible designs using Intelligence and Algorithms

The main goal of SOFIA is to develop a four-dimensional (4D) system offering reliable, ubiquitous, continuous, flexible, dynamic, and cost-efficient connectivity for 6G communications, contributing to the economic and environmental sustainability of future networks. Traditionally, networks provide connectivity in a quasi-bi-directional space. SOFIA’s 4D network extends and complements the terrestrial 2D network with a non-terrestrial component and integrates sensing to improve performance, flexibility, reliability, and sustainability.

In SOFIA, CTTC targets intelligent PHY/MAC techniques for space information networks with Internet of Sense capabilities, focusing on enhancing non-geostationary (NGEO) satellite communications. It aims to improve communication reliability through air-interface adaptations for Doppler robustness and overcoming NTN challenges. Efficient precoding, beamforming, and beam management mechanisms will be developed. The project will develop joint communication-computing strategies for resource optimization. AI-driven radio resource management will further enhance satellite communications.

CTTC also aims to design a 6G antenna. Additionally, AI-powered integrated sensing and communications (ISAC) for sub-6GHz and mmWave MIMO, and optical sensing and communications (IOSAC) schemes leveraging optical hardware will be tackled. Combining optical and radio interfaces through innovative signalling is a key focus.

To validate these techniques, proof-of-concept experiments on hardware testbeds will be conducted using CTTC’s CASTLE Platform®, including validation of AI techniques, antenna technologies, satellite, and optical communication systems. Remote platform access will be enabled for project partners.