Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS5G is giving the convergence of terrestrial and satellite-based networks a major boost. For the first time, the concept of non-terrestrial networks (NTN) is systematically taking satellite integration into account in the standardization of a new mobile communications standard. This is good for both sides: 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 range of services far beyond the provision of satellite TV and Internet.
Direct 5G Satellite Connectivity
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5G Satellite Integration
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 further infrastructure. By serving as connection points between cellular base stations on the ground, satellites establish a global communications network that can play a major part in the rapid rollout of 5G connectivity worldwide. This type of connectivity is already well established, but always requires that both the satellites and users’ devices have a stable connection to a cellular base station.
New ways to connect – 5G direct access via satellite
At Fraunhofer IIS, we go one step further and focus on developing technologies for direct communication between satellites and users’ devices as a way to combine terrestrial and satellite-based communication systems.
These newer concepts for integrating satellites into 5G terrestrial infrastructure are based on direct connectivity between satellites and 5G-enabled user equipment (UE). These devices then have satellite-based access to the 5G network at all times – even when there is no base station nearby. In the future, this will mean that smartphones or vehicles can establish a connection either via a cellular base station or directly via satellite, depending on the reception situation. Network architectures are also possible in which the satellite itself, either fully or partially, serves as the base station (gNB).
Especially in combination with various satellite operators’ recently launched or planned constellations, comprising a large number of smaller satellites in low earth orbit (LEO), the integration of satellites into the 5G network offers great opportunities for reliable and global cellular coverage without any gaps.
Current research projects
5G-GOA – 5G enabled ground segment technologies and over the air demonstrator via GEO satellite
5G-GOA – 5G enabled ground segment technologies and over the air demonstrator via GEO satellite
The objective of the 5G-GOA project is the development and implementation of necessary 5G New Radio modifications according to the 3GPP standardization of 5G NTN in order to enable direct radio access of terrestrial communication networks via GEO satellite. The project is funded by the European Space Agency (ESA).
Fraunhofer IIS provides new software developments for the 5G-enabled prototypes of the base station (gNB) and the mobile end devices (UE), both based on OpenAirInterface.
5G-IS – 5G system infrastructure study
5G-IS – 5G system infrastructure study
The study 5G-IS, which is funded by the European Space Agency ESA (Directorate of Telecommunications and Integrated Applications TIA) addresses the huge potential of satellite-based 5G and beyond services for global connectivity and their infrastructural requirements.
Fraunhofer IIS brings its expertise in 5G satellite integration to this project.
5G-LEO – OpenAirInterface™ extension for 5G satellite links
5G-LEO – OpenAirInterface™ extension for 5G satellite links
In the 5G-LEO project, funded by the European Space Agency ESA, Fraunhofer IIS works with partners in order to extend the OpenAirInterface (OAI) open source code to support satellite systems in non-geostationary orbits. This extension will implement a full 5G protocol stack (Release 17) for both the user equipment (UE) and the base station (gNB). The main outcome of this activity will be a publicly available updated version of the OAI software library with new features to simulate and to test 5G communication links over satellites in low earth orbit (LEO).
5G METEORS – ESA makerspace for 5G and satellite communication
5G METEORS – ESA MakerSpace for 5G and satellite communication
5G METEORS, funded by the European Space Agency (ESA), addresses a broad range of challenges in the 5G and satellite convergence and integration domain, specifically for the direct usage of 5G New Radio over satellites. The program funds several smaller activities comprising the implementation and demonstration of 5G direct access over satellites.
Fraunhofer IIS provides technical support for the coordination of the 5G METEORS program and contributes with 5G NTN technology demonstrations.
6G SENTINEL – Six-G Enablers: Flexible Networks, THz Technology and Integration, Non-Terrestrial Networks, SidElink, and Localization
6G SENTINEL – Six-G Enablers: Flexible Networks, THz Technology and Integration, Non-Terrestrial Networks, SidElink, and Localization
6G SENTINEL is a Fraunhofer lighthouse project. Through its lighthouse projects, the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft sets strategic priorities to develop specific solutions that will benefit German industry. In the 6G SENTINEL project, five participating Fraunhofer Institutes are developing key technologies for the impending 6G mobile communications standard.
One focus of Fraunhofer IIS is on system level simulations for future hybrid networks in order to comprehensively test the integration of satellites into 6G mobile networks.
6G-SKY – 6G for Connected Sky
6G-SKY – 6G for Connected Sky
In the 6G-SKY project, solutions for the next generation of mobile communications are being developed to ensure reliable and robust networking on the ground and in the air. 6G-SKY is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action in the framework of the European research initiative CELTIC-NEXT.
Fraunhofer IIS is leads the German project consortium, advances 6G system level simulations and participates in technology demonstrations of 6G links via satellite and terrestrial 6G links.