Higher Speed Optical Access Networks and future end-to-end Packet Optical Network Architecture in 6G

The scope of this topic focuses on the following areas:

• Higher speed optical access networks and future end-to-end packet optical network architecture in all network domains to provide very high capacity and to support very wideband services and applications in an energy-efficient way.
• Architectures and protocols for access and backhaul use cases and potentially for optical space links in NTN systems, where the components and systems are developed in other initiatives but integrated in SNS platforms.
• Integration of wireless and optical and optical sensing as support for services.
• AI support for network automation and efficient use of resources with respect to energy consumption and efficiency.
• Quantum networking over fiber for trustworthy systems and applications.
• Impact of photonic systems in 6G on energy consumption / sustainability.

Note: Applicants should clearly identify the areas/priorities they address in case they only cover a subset.