This paper explores the transformative potential of digital twin (DT) technology in the context of non-terrestrial networks (NTNs). NTNs, encompassing both airborne and space-borne elements, present unique challenges in network control, management, and optimization. DT is a novel approach to design and manage complicated cyber-physical systems with a high degree of automation, intelligence, and resilience. The adoption of DTs within NTNs offers a dynamic and detailed virtual representation of the entire ecosystem, enabling real-time monitoring, simulations, and data-driven decision-making. This paper delves into the envisioned integration of DTs in NTNs, discussing the technical challenges and highlighting key enabling technologies. Emphasis is placed on technologies such as Internet of things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), space-based cloud computing, quantum computing, and others, providing a comprehensive overview of their potentials in empowering DT development for NTNs. In closing, we present a case study involving the implementation of a data-driven DT model to facilitate dynamic and service-oriented network slicing within an open radio access network (O-RAN) architecture for NTNs. This work contributes to shaping the future of network control and management in the dynamic and evolving landscape of non-terrestrial communication systems.

翻译：本文探讨了数字孪生（DT）技术在非地面网络（NTN）领域的变革性潜力。非地面网络包含空中和空间元素，在网络控制、管理与优化方面面临独特挑战。数字孪生是一种以高自动化、高智能与高韧性设计管理复杂信息物理系统的新兴方法。将数字孪生引入非地面网络，可为整个生态系统提供动态、精细的虚拟表征，实现实时监控、仿真与数据驱动的决策制定。本文深入探讨了数字孪生在非地面网络中的愿景化集成方案，分析了技术挑战，并重点阐述了关键使能技术。文中特别关注物联网（IoT）、人工智能（AI）、天基云计算、量子计算等技术，全面论述了它们赋能非地面网络数字孪生发展的潜力。最后，我们通过案例研究，展示了在面向非地面网络的开放无线接入网（O-RAN）架构中，如何实现数据驱动的数字孪生模型以支持动态化、服务导向的网络切片。本研究为动态演进的非地面通信系统中网络控制与管理的未来格局构建提供了重要参考。