Eutelsat, with partners such as MediaTek Inc. and Airbus Defence and Space, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by conducting the world’s inaugural trial of 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) technology, utilising the Eutelsat OneWeb low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation.
This remarkable development paves the way for the broader adoption of the 5G NTN standard, aimed at ensuring seamless integration between satellite and terrestrial networks, reducing costs, and enhancing satellite broadband access for devices enabled with 5G globally.
The trial harnessed Eutelsat OneWeb satellites, MediaTek’s NR NTN test chipset, and gNB technology from ITRI, all aligned with the 3GPP Release 17 specifications. The efforts were supported by equipment from Sharp and Rhode & Schwarz, while Airbus’s LEO satellites employed Ku-band service links and Ka-band feeder links, utilising the innovative “Earth-moving beams” concept. Notably, a 5G user terminal successfully connected to the 5G core through the satellite link, facilitating seamless data exchange.
With the integration of 5G standards throughout the mobile industry, satellite constellations are set to naturally complement terrestrial networks, fostering global connectivity at an unprecedented scale. This advancement will unlock new opportunities across various sectors, including smartphones, automotive innovations, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Arlen Kassighian, Chief Engineering Officer at Eutelsat Group, stated, “These trials exemplify Eutelsat Group’s dedication to developing and adopting new technologies to provide optimal services for our customers, in partnership with our trusted allies. 5G NTN will play a pivotal role in the upcoming IRIS2 constellation, and Eutelsat is positioned at the forefront of this innovation, actively participating in the ecosystem. We take pride in being the first satellite operator to demonstrate the 5G air interface functioning on a commercial fleet in Ku-band, paving the way for future applications in new constellations.”
Mingxi Fan, Head of Wireless System and ASIC Engineering at MediaTek, emphasised, “As a leader in terrestrial and non-terrestrial connectivity, we remain committed to enhancing lives through innovative technology that connects environments, even in areas lacking cellular coverage. Our real-world connections with LEO satellites represent a significant step toward delivering the next generation of 3GPP-based NR-NTN satellite wideband connectivity for commercial applications.”
Elodie Viau, Head of Space Systems Engineering at Airbus, added, “The successful demonstration of 5G NTN satellite connectivity with the Airbus-built OneWeb satellites not only highlights the flexibility and innovative design of the satellites but also heralds the potential for true global satellite broadband connectivity for 5G devices. As pioneers in space connectivity, we are dedicated to advancing the development of 5G NTN, and we eagerly anticipate the next phase of integrating satellites into our everyday lives.”
