European Space Agency (ESA) and Telesat have successfully connected a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite to the ground using 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) technology in the Ka-band frequency range. This milestone marks a crucial step toward making space-based connections as simple as using a mobile phone. This breakthrough unlocks possibilities previously out of reach, as low-flying satellites combined with standardized 5G technology can now support services requiring real-time, interactive connections. The achievement could transform emergency response, rural healthcare, and remote industrial operations worldwide.
ESA's 5G/6G laboratory at its European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in the Netherlands connected to Telesat's LEO 3 satellite. The test, conducted using Amarisoft’s 5G technology, maintained a stable connection with the satellite as it moved across the sky, from the horizon to a peak elevation of 38 degrees and back. While similar tests have been done with geostationary satellites, this marks the first successful implementation of 5G NTN technology with a fast-moving LEO satellite.
Applications of 5G NTN Technology
From enabling remote surgeries and autonomous vehicles to supporting disaster response and providing connectivity in remote areas, the applications of this innovation are vast. The system also has the potential to enhance in-flight internet services and improve interconnectivity between terrestrial and satellite networks.
The experiment utilized open standards developed by the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), enabling potential direct-to-device satellite connections. This innovation could reduce infrastructure costs and ensure seamless coverage whether in urban centers or remote regions.
Statements from Key Players
Antonio Franchi, ESA’s Head of the 5G/6G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) Programme: "We are proud to continue to drive European technological leadership and innovation in Non-Terrestrial Networks. This initiative celebrates the great collaboration between ESA, Telesat, and Amarisoft.”
Mario Neri, Telesat’s Director of Spectrum Strategy, Innovation, and Space Sustainability: “This activity allowed testing the recently standardized 5G NTN technology in a real-world scenario, using the Ka-band spectrum over our LEO 3 satellite – something that no one had ever done before.”
Marouan Benabdellah-Chaouni, Senior Vice President at Amarisoft: “With 5G over satellite, we’re making global connectivity more accessible. This achievement highlights Amarisoft’s leadership in cutting-edge 5G technology and the power of partnerships to advance non-terrestrial communication.”
A Step Toward Global Connectivity
This experiment is part of ESA’s Space for 5G/6G and Sustainable Connectivity Programme, which aims to integrate cellular and space-based networks to connect everyone, everywhere. By demonstrating the feasibility of 5G NTN specifications with LEO satellites, ESA and its partners have laid the groundwork for future projects like IRIS², Europe’s secure satellite communications initiative.
