5G and 6G Satellite Integration

5G is giving the convergence of terrestrial and satellite-based networks a major boost. Under the keyword "Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN)", satellites are being consistently integrated into the mobile communications standard for the first time, subsequently paving the way for a global and dense communication network in the future 6G generation. Both sides benefit from this: not only does it mean terrestrial cellular networks can count on satellite support to overcome any range limitations, it also gives the satellite industry the opportunity to expand its offering of services far beyond the provision of satellite TV and internet. For example, the automotive industry and the Internet of Things benefit from seamless connectivity with NTN.

The traditional method, backhaul, involves using satellites to connect cellular base stations on the ground. Satellite backhaul is what connects base stations in remote areas to the cellular network, if necessary, without any additional infrastructure. By serving as connection points between cellular base stations on the ground, satellites establish a global communications network that can make a significant contribution to a fast roll-out of globally available 5G connectivity. This type of networking has already been established since 4G, but will only be anchored in the standard within 3GPP with 5G. The backhaul approach also requires that a terrestrial base station is always available nearby.

New ways to connect – 5G direct access via satellite

At Fraunhofer IIS, we go one step further and focus specifically on the development of technologies for direct communication between satellites and users’ devices as a way to gradually combine terrestrial and satellite-based communication systems.

These newer concepts for integrating satellites into the terrestrial 5G infrastructure are based on direct connectivity between satellites and 5G-enabled user equipment (UE) such as smartphones or vehicles. These devices then have access to the 5G network at all times – even when there is no terrestrial base station nearby. Smartphones or vehicles are thus able to establish a connection via a cellular base station or directly via satellite, depending on the reception situation. Future network architectures are also possible in which the satellite itself, either fully or partially, serves as a base station (gNB).

Why 5G direct satellite access?

For certain applications, a direct connection between satellites and devices offers particular benefits:

Global
connectivity

Guarantees reception anywhere for fixed terminals or mobile users and IoT devices – even in the most remote regions of the world.

Seamless reception for mobile applications

Offers reliable transmission of updates and warnings to vehicles or continuous transmission of IoT sensor data.

Efficient broadcast
function

Relieves terrestrial infrastructure (data offloading) by transmitting media content and software updates via satellite to many mobile devices simultaneously.

Icon LEO satellite constellation
© Fraunhofer IIS

 

Especially in combination with various satellite operators’ recently launched or planned constellations, comprising a large number of smaller satellites in low orbit, the integration of satellites into the 5G network offers great opportunities for reliable and global cellular coverage without any gaps. One example of this is the satellite constellation IRIS² (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite) initiated by the European Union.

How we are driving 5G satellite integration

Technology development and consulting

 

 

We develop and test the latest approaches to integrating terrestrial and satellite-based communication. On this basis, we would be happy to advise you on all questions related to system engineering for satellite communication and 5G.

Our offer includes consulting services with a close connection to 5G standardization, as well as feasibility studies and the development of system-specific integration concepts.

Simulation
and analysis

 

 

Learn how various applications can benefit from 5G New Radio (NR) via satellite: To determine the performance of 5G NR direct access via satellite, we offer link- and system-level simulations for established and new systems.

We have simulation tools available that allow a quick and detailed analysis of all important performance parameters.

Prototyping
and demonstration

 

 

To validate the performance of 5G NR via satellite in actual transmission, we use the prototyping platform "OpenAirInterface (OAI)" with 5G-NTN extensions.

This enables us to implement the latest features from the ongoing standardization process at an early stage and test them with you in live tests via satellite. In addition, our laboratories have the necessary equipment to realistically replicate various channel characteristics in satellite transmission.

 

Looking into the future: satellite integration in 6G

Illustration 6G satellite integration
© Fraunhofer IIS/Franziska Köhler

With 6G, the previous terrestrial networks expand into a three-dimensional structure in which communication on the ground, in the air, and in space merge. Whether base stations, cars, drones, planes, High Altitude Platforms (HAPS), or satellites – platforms from completely different levels are connected to form a 3D network. Communication thereby becomes not only globally and universally available but also gains resilience.

However, the dynamics of the 3D networks pose an immense challenge. While the architecture in the past remained static on the ground, in the future the individual elements will be in constant motion. Therefore, our research is currently focusing on the development of a 6G-capable system-level simulator, in which the complex processes of the 3D networks can be reproduced.

On top of this, we want to ensure the sustainability of the 6G networks. To achieve lower signal peaks and even better performance ratio in future transmission methods, we are researching a more energy-efficient waveform that will enable the power-limited satellites to reach the highest possible data throughput.

Reference projects

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