Unlocking the potential of THz links for 6G Aerial Communications and Sensing

THz communications have emerged as a transformative enabler for 6G systems, offering unprecedented throughput, ultra-low latency, and precise sensing capabilities. Within the 6G framework, THz frequencies have been identified as ideal for high-capacity and high-mobility scenarios, such as aerial networks and urban environments, and the standardization process is ongoing. However, these frequencies present significant challenges, including high path loss, mobility-induced Doppler effects, and high sensitivity to obstacles. This paper presents the challenges behind an accurate characterization of the wireless propagation channel at sub-THz in both terrestrial and aerial environments, and investigates the critical role of waveform design to perform reliable channel and sensing measurement campaigns and to develop accurate high-mobility channel models. These models are the foundation to enable the design and to fully unlock the potential of robust 6G communication and sensing architectures at sub-THz.