Breakthrough: First 5G NTN Link via Geostationary Satellite

Researchers in Korea have achieved a groundbreaking milestone by successfully demonstrating the first 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN) link from a geostationary satellite. This achievement marks a significant advancement in the realm of telecommunications technology.

Utilizing a geostationary satellite for 5G NTN offers a more stable connection over a specified area. However, due to its higher orbit, it necessitates the use of more sensitive equipment to ensure seamless communication.

The collaborative effort involved Korea Telecom (KT), subsidiary KT SAT, Rohde & Schwarz Korea, and VIAVI Solutions Korea. Together, they utilized the KoreaSat6 satellite positioned at an orbital altitude of 35,800 km to showcase the world's first implementation of the 5G NTN standard on a geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) satellite.

While previous 5G satellite links have predominantly relied on constellations in low earth orbit (LEO), which require intricate handover algorithms, this demonstration opens up new possibilities for leveraging geostationary satellites in the 5G network infrastructure.

In a joint announcement, KT CEO Kim Young-seop and KT SAT CEO Seo Young-soo revealed the successful test conducted at KT SAT's Kumsan Satellite Centre. The test showcased the capabilities of 5G NTN, a standardized technology defined in 3GPP Release 17.

5G NTN, although offering slightly slower data transmission speeds compared to terrestrial 5G networks, plays a crucial role in providing services in areas with coverage gaps such as sea, air, and mountainous regions. The standards outlined in Release 17 facilitate seamless handover between existing 5G networks and 5G satellite coverage, ensuring uninterrupted services on the ground and in the air.

Looking ahead, ongoing work on technologies for 5G from satellites to complement terrestrial networks is progressing in 3GPP Release 19. Once the standards are finalized, verification of the technology through interoperability tests will commence.

The core technology behind this milestone involves precise processing of propagation delay and frequency changes caused by the satellite's movement. KT successfully implemented a technology during the test that accurately compensates for the long delay time over a distance of approximately 35,800 km using standard protocols.

Furthermore, in addition to geostationary satellites, KT aims to develop NTN technology compatible with various aerospace communication platforms, including medium-Earth Orbit (MEO) satellites, low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, and high-altitude platform stations (HAPS) supported by the 3GPP standard.

Kim Tae-hoon, CEO of Rohde & Schwarz Korea, emphasized the significance of NTN technology in expanding communication networks to diverse spaces such as sea and air. The collaboration between industry experts has paved the way for the smooth operation and enhanced user experience of the 3GPP standard-based NTN service.

Seo Beom-seok, CEO of Viavi Solutions Korea, highlighted the broader implications of the 5G NTN project, stating that it not only explores short-term low-orbit services but also sets the stage for future broadband, hyper-connectivity, and low-latency services envisioned in 6G through NTN technology.

Lee Jong-sik, managing director and head of KT's Network Research Institute, underscored the pivotal role of NTN technology in shaping the future of 6G communications. He envisions a communication landscape in the 6G era that transcends terrestrial boundaries, extending into the three-dimensional aerial domain, ushering in a truly ubiquitous communications era.

For more information, visit www.ktsat.com.