| Abstract |
Integrating non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) with terrestrial networks (TNs) is vital for seamless global connectivity in 5G/6G communications. This integration supports the growing demand for connectivity across a wide range of devices, from conventional handheld user equipment (UE) and connected vehicles to Internet-of-Things (IoT) applications in smart cities, extending even to small IoT devices embedded within the human body. However, this integration introduces significant challenges, particularly because of the dynamic nature of satellite-based NTN radio coverage. The coexistence of TNs and NTNs complicates mobility and handover (HO) management, which is vital for wireless service continuity as UE/IoT devices encounter rapidly changing wireless mobile coverage. This paper explores the complexities and challenges of HO management in TN-NTN integration, focusing on issues such as the dynamic nature of NTN radio coverage and the limitations of traditional HO decision metrics, like reference signal received power (RSRP). Additionally, it examines the increased power consumption of UE/IoT devices because of the need for frequent RSRP measurements, the swiftly changing radio conditions that lead to higher HO rates, where devices switch back and forth between radio cells. © 1986-2012 IEEE. |
