5G/6G and Satellites: Global Connectivity Revolution

We are all somewhat familiar with 5G from our mobile phones. Typically, our mobile phones are served by a base station on a tower physically connected to the ground. These towers need to be quite tall to improve coverage and connectivity. Looking ahead, there is a growing interest in the space industry in positioning base stations in the sky.

Non-terrestrial networks are specifically designed to address these challenges. While some of these issues may be mitigated by other solutions, space-based infrastructure, such as low-Earth orbit satellites, offers a unique and effective alternative in many cases.

NTN is a broad term that refers to base stations and network infrastructure that are not on the ground. This could include satellites, airborne base stations installed in aircraft, or high-altitude platforms, which involve long-term gliders operating in the stratosphere for weeks at a time.

What are the challenges?

The cost of deploying and maintaining NTNs is closely tied to these factors, which is why so many technical hurdles must be overcome to make it viable.

D2D is a better alternative, where the actual base stations are part of the NTN, giving users direct access to the network with lower latency and greater throughput.

What are the challenges?

D2D offers many benefits, although it comes with size, weight, and power challenges.

IoT solutions have long struggled with reliable data backhaul from the site to central computing. NTNs have the potential to solve this issue, but developing low-power solutions for these networks will require careful optimisation—an area we are particularly interested in.

One of the key attributes of 5G and 6G is their configurability. These technologies allow for rapid network deployment and dynamic adaptation. With NTNs, it becomes possible to establish a network in difficult circumstances with minimal infrastructure, reducing network downtime and dependency on vulnerable infrastructure.

The evolution of cruise ship connectivity is particularly exciting. The business model is set to change significantly as passengers gain direct access to satellite networks from their balconies, assuming they have a clear line of sight. This shift will redefine how communications function while traveling.

Another critical area is secure communications. Once D2D satellite systems reach full deployment, they will likely become a standard tool. While specialized terminals will remain necessary for high-security applications, D2D satellite phones offer a rapid and effective solution for deploying communications in more challenging environments.