Keysight Technologies has announced its involvement in the Airbus UpNext SpaceRAN demonstrator. This initiative seeks to explore the potential of 5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN) through the use of advanced software-defined satellite technology, both terrestrially and in orbit.
The advancement of 5G NTN brings with it numerous technical obstacles. Key challenges include achieving seamless integration between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, managing reliable mobility, and ensuring high-performance connectivity across dynamic satellite orbits. Overcoming these issues is crucial for enabling global coverage, low-latency communications, and the envisaged future capabilities of broadband and direct-to-handheld 5G services from space.
In the ground-based demonstration, Keysight is playing an important role by providing test and measurement tools. These include satellite channel emulation (PROPSIM) and user segment emulation (UeSim), complemented by supportive software. These solutions are significant when validating prominent 5G NTN use cases such as beam handover, gateway handover, and efficient mobility management between terrestrial and non-terrestrial systems.
The SpaceRAN demonstrator initiated by Airbus aims to scrutinise both broadband and direct-to-handheld 5G NTN prospects. The project will culminate in the deployment of a regenerative payload on an Airbus Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite. This payload is equipped with on-board signal processing and integrated gNodeB functionality, facilitating efficient and flexible network operations in the spatial domain.
As part of a broader strategic endeavour, this collaboration aims to encourage non-proprietary, sovereign, and standardised connectivity solutions. It emphasises the integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks. By teaming up with Airbus, Keysight joins a group of industry professionals dedicated to constructing an interoperable ecosystem that supports the future of global communications.
Keysight's participation in the SpaceRAN project demonstrates its dedication to advancing satellite-enabled 5G technology. It reflects their focus on ensuring reliable next-generation networks and contributing to Europe’s technological capabilities in connectivity, aerospace, and 5G.
