Keysight KT SAT Multi-Orbit NTN Handover Demo

Keysight Technologies and Korean satellite operator KT SAT have successfully demonstrated the industry’s first 5G NR non-terrestrial network (NTN) handover between a live geostationary earth orbit (GEO) satellite and an emulated low Earth orbit (LEO) link. The proof-of-concept took place at KT SAT’s Kumsan Satellite Network Operation Center in Korea, utilizing the KOREASAT-6A satellite. This milestone showcases the potential integration of multi-orbit satellite systems into future networks and offers valuable insights into the behavior of newly standardized Ku-band NTN spectrum under real-world mobility conditions.

For those tracking the evolution of 5G towards 6G, this demonstration provides a tangible glimpse into the future of network connectivity. The ability to seamlessly handover between different orbits opens up possibilities for enhanced coverage and network resilience, especially in remote or disaster-prone areas. Despite the challenges posed by satellite links, such as propagation delays and changing link conditions, the successful handover signifies a significant step towards achieving continuous, multi-orbit connectivity.

The live Ku-band GEO connection, operating at frequencies around 12.3 GHz downlink and 14.4 GHz uplink, transitioned smoothly to an emulated LEO link while maintaining session continuity. This groundbreaking feat, conducted in a controlled lab environment using a commercial GEO satellite, marks a pivotal moment in the advancement of satellite communication technologies.

As the industry looks beyond the current capabilities of 5G, the integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks becomes increasingly crucial. The demonstration by Keysight and KT SAT exemplifies the potential for operators to shift from isolated satellite links to a cohesive, multi-orbit network architecture. The utilization of Ku-band spectrum, now a focal point in emerging global NTN standards, underscores the strategic importance of this frequency range in future network deployments.

By leveraging Keysight’s Network Emulator Solutions and UeSIM RAN Testing Toolset, the test setup emulated both the base station and user equipment, facilitating a seamless handover process between the GEO satellite and the emulated LEO connection. Operating in the Ku-band not only validates the relevance of 3GPP Release 19 NTN frequency bands but also provides valuable insights into propagation characteristics and interoperability, crucial for satellite operators and device manufacturers.

For KT SAT, this successful demonstration paves the way for validating advanced NTN mobility scenarios in a controlled lab environment, potentially expediting service rollouts and reducing development risks. The collaboration between Keysight and KT SAT aims to inform industry standards discussions and operator evaluations, streamlining the path to commercializing multi-orbit NTN services and accelerating the adoption of next-generation satellite communication technologies.