The demand for connected mobile devices is outpacing the capabilities and bandwidth available from terrestrial networks. As the need for capacity and the number of connected devices increases, mobile network operators (MNOs) are facing the pressure to extend coverage and improve network performance. Terrestrial infrastructure has limitations, especially in rural, remote or rugged environments where terrain, tower availability and infrastructure costs make expansion difficult.
No Cell Tower? No Problem
The GSMA estimates that 5G will benefit the global economy by more than $960 billion in 2030. However, enhanced coverage and capacity will be key for 5G to reach its potential and for the global economy to benefit.
5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN) offer a next-generation solution to expand coverage zones for MNOs. These 5G NTN systems aim to fill the gaps for mobile network operators around the globe – expanding MNOs’ reach, rather than replacing them.
5G NTN refers to the integration of satellite systems and high altitude platforms to enable seamless connectivity between terrestrial and space-based networks. The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standard (release 17 and 18), for example, makes it possible for NTN systems to function as high-speed, wide-area base stations in the sky. Whether based on LEO, GEO or HAPS architectures, the goal of these systems is to enable mobile devices to connect directly with non-terrestrial platforms; ultimately making it possible to access 5G services in places where cell towers don’t exist.
Opening New Markets for MNOs
5G NTN extends MNO coverage far beyond the reach of terrestrial infrastructure, unlocking new capabilities for industries that depend on reliable, always-on connectivity, including transportation and logistics to energy and agriculture.
While 5G NTN is often associated with expanding smartphone connectivity, 5G NTN also has the potential to enhance a variety of industries – from supply chain logistics to automotive and transportation with connected vehicles to military operations and disaster relief – by delivering seamless, reliable and resilient global connectivity.
For military applications, 5G NTN could ensure uninterrupted, mission-critical communication across various domains and in any terrain or weather. In the connected car sector, it could provide continuous, real-time transmission of data such as traffic management, safety information, vehicle health and more, no matter the location.
Enabling Direct-to-Device Mobile Access (D2D)
Among the most compelling use cases for 5G NTN is direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity. With D2D, compatible smartphones and existing IoT devices can connect directly to satellites in space without the need for specialized hardware or satellite phones.
There are several companies that are defining what D2D connectivity will look like, each bringing a different integration approach to market. Companies like Skylo, Terrestar and Viasat/Inmarsat are developing systems which will be aligned with 3GPP standards. These 3GPP standards outline how satellites can integrate into the 5G system architecture to provide full interoperability with existing terrestrial mobile networks. Others, such as AST SpaceMobile, SpaceX and Lynk, are already providing coverage to current devices using supplemental coverage from space (SCS) connectivity giving them a head start on offering direct satellite-to-smartphone communications.
The diversity of these strategies among players in the market underscores both the technical complexity and commercial opportunity of 5G NTN. As the ecosystem works toward scalable, global solutions, it is imperative that these solutions be properly evaluated prior to launch.
Evaluating 5G NTN Concepts in The Lab
As 5G NTN technologies continue to mature, rigorous lab-based and hardware-in-the-loop validation remains essential to ensure seamless performance across complex, hybrid networks. From handovers between terrestrial and satellite links to simulating mobility and edge cases, comprehensive emulation environments help operators and innovators reduce risk and accelerate time to market – turning global connectivity ideas from concept to reality.
As the ecosystem continues to develop, those who invest in 5G NTN today are helping shape a future where coverage is universal, reliable and unconstrained.
Colin Telfer, RLS Product Manager, Square Peg Communications