The next generation of wireless systems will take the concept of communications and networking to another level through the seamless integration of terrestrial, aerial, satellite, maritime and underwater communication systems. Reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) is an innovative technology which, with its singular features and functionalities, can expedite the realization of this everywhere connectivity. Motivated by the unparalleled properties of this innovatory technology, this article provides a comprehensive discussion on how RIS can contribute to the actualization and proper functioning of future integrated terrestrial/non-terrestrial (INTENT) networks. As a case study, we explore the integration of RIS into non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA)-based satellite communication networks and demonstrate the performance enhancement achieved by the inclusion of RIS via numerical simulations. Promising directions for future research in this area are set forth at the end of this article.

翻译：下一代无线系统将通过陆地、空中、卫星、海洋和水下通信系统的无缝整合,将通信和联网的概念带到另一个层次。可重新配置的智能表面(RIS)是一种创新技术,具有独特的特点和功能,可以加速实现无处不在的连接。由于这一创新技术的无与伦比的特性,本篇文章全面讨论了RIS如何为未来综合的地面/非地球(INTRENT)网络的实际化和适当运行作出贡献。作为案例研究,我们探索将RIS纳入非横向多重访问(NOMA)卫星通信网络,并展示通过数字模拟纳入RIS所实现的绩效提高。本文章结尾处列出了这一领域未来研究的有希望的方向。