Eutelsat Just Did What Apple And Starlink Couldn’t — 5G In Space!

Eutelsat OneWeb, along with Airbus, has tested the world’s first 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN) in low Earth orbit (LEO). Via their orbital satellites, Eutelsat said they accomplished the mission which will “pave the way for deployment of the 5G NTN standard.” Hope lies in increasing the presence of 5G connectivity operations in orbit to ensure 5G device users have access when they need it. 

Eutelsat Group’s Chief Engineering Officer, Arlen Kassighian, said: “These trials show the commitment of Eutelsat Group in developing and adopting new technologies, in order to provide the best possible services to our customers, in collaboration with trusted partners. 5G NTN will be a key feature of the IRIS2 constellation, and Eutelsat is at the forefront of this innovation and active member of the ecosystem. We are proud to be the first satellite operator to demonstrate the 5G air interface working on a commercial fleet in Ku-band and paving the way for new applications in future constellations.”

What Have Eutelsat Achieved With 5G NTN Gains?

To complete the test, Eutelsat utilised their array of satellites in orbit, along with MediaTek’s NR NTN test chipset, Eutelsat said. In addition, Eutelsat lent on Sharp as well as Rohde & Schwarz to obtain the antennas and testing equipment. Then the testing began. 

Eutelsat outlined that their deployed Airbus-built satellites carry transponders that “adopt the “Earth-moving beams” concept.” Thereafter, the satellite operators affirmed that their satellites managed to successfully connect to a 5G core. To do so, they linked the core through a “satellite link and exchanged traffic,” marking a positive result and a world first for the British and French organisations. 

How Eutelsat’s Test Will Aim To Enable Greater Coverage For Device Users

Eutelsat is aiming to provide greater coverage via the network to millions around the world. Dead spots in regional areas and general NBN issues have increased the call for more satellite connectivity for devices. As a result, more company’s, including Apple and Starlink are following suit by beta testing satellite connectivity.  

Eutelsat said their test has provided a solution that will enable: “truly ubiquitous connectivity with economies of scale, and opening up new markets for smartphones, the automotive industry and the Internet-of-Things.” Yet, the true test will be getting providers onboard. However, Eutelsat argued that once integration is finalised, satellite connectivity will “naturally and seamlessly complement terrestrial networks.” Plans are to also equip the IRIS 2 constellation with the tools to enable 5G NTN connectivity.

No further plans have been outlined for how the test will be practically introduced to Earthly smartphones and devices. However, Eutelsat will almost certainly be working to onboard a range of providers now that they have a successful trial under their belt.