  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.
