The European Space Agency (ESA) and satellite operator Telesat have established a 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) connection using a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite in the Ka-band frequency range. This marks the first time 5G NTN technology has been implemented with a fast-moving LEO satellite, paving the way for real-time, space-based connectivity, according to the official release.
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LEO Satellite and 5G Technology
The experiment, conducted at ESA's 5G/6G laboratory in the Netherlands, used Telesat’s LEO 3 demonstration satellite and Amarisoft’s 5G technology to maintain a stable connection as the satellite moved across the sky. Using Amarisoft's 5G technology, the team established and maintained a stable connection with the satellite as it moved across the sky, from just above the horizon to its peak elevation of 38 degrees and back down again.
Unlike previous tests involving geostationary satellites, this marks the first successful implementation of 5G NTN technology with a LEO satellite moving fast with respect to a user on the ground.
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"The test was made possible through a Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier this year between ESA and Telesat, which provided access to the LEO 3 demonstration satellite. The LEO 3 satellite serves an important role for low-latency customer applications testing, as well as antenna and modem development," the official release said on December 23, 2024.
Transformative Applications
According to the official release, this achieve holds potential for sectors like emergency response, remote healthcare, autonomous vehicles, and disaster management. By using open standards developed by the 3GPP, the system enables direct device-to-satellite connections, reducing infrastructure costs and ensuring coverage in both urban and remote areas.
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Space and Cellular Integration
The project is part of ESA's Space for 5G/6G and Sustainable Connectivity strategic programme line, which aims to integrate cellular networks with space-based networks to connect everyone, everywhere, at all times.
The technology partners claim this achievement as a world first, after connecting a a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite to the ground using 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) technology. This marks a crucial step towards making space-based connections as simple as using a mobile phone.
