Telecommunications companies are increasingly exploring the possibility of space-based initiatives as the integration of terrestrial and satellite networks becomes essential for the next generation of connectivity. The convergence of space technology and telecom enables seamless global coverage, enhances network resilience, and addresses challenges like rural connectivity and disaster recovery.
European telecom giants, supported by frameworks like the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity program, are at the forefront of these efforts. Through these collaborations, European telecom operators are bridging the gap between terrestrial and space communications, driving global standards, promoting sustainability, and maintaining Europe’s competitive edge in the evolving digital landscape. Their efforts are shaping the future of connectivity by extending telecommunications beyond Earth’s boundaries.
Sharing his exclusive insight on advanced communication networks with Telecom Review, Ari Banerjee, Senior Vice President, Strategy, Netcracker Technology, noted, “The next generation of telecom technology is revolutionizing the way we live, work and think. With faster transmission speeds, higher bandwidth and reduced latency, advanced communications networks, such as 5G and the rapidly growing satellite communications sector, offer nearly limitless possibilities.”
Exclusive: The Future of Business Connectivity: From Fiber Optics to Satellite Networks
Launching the Future of Space-Based Connectivity
At MWC Barcelona 2024, the European Space Agency (ESA) and GSMA Foundry unveiled a groundbreaking partnership aimed at redefining the landscape of global connectivity through the seamless integration of satellite and terrestrial networks. This ambitious collaboration is set to spearhead innovation in communication technologies, supported by funding opportunities of up to EUR 15 million to foster advancements in the mobile and satellite industries. By encouraging the development of hybrid networks, the initiative aspires to create new revenue streams, enhance global connectivity, and enable resilient communication solutions for the future.
The partnership’s multi-faceted objectives and industry-specific challenges are designed to stimulate innovative projects in the satellite and telecommunications fields. These challenges will catalyze groundbreaking solutions, with the first round of funding opportunities expected to achieve EUR 15 million in investments.
Recognizing the importance of knowledge transfer, ESA and GSMA Foundry will launch a new GSMA Advance training course tailored to industry professionals. This program aims to equip participants with the skills and expertise to navigate the increasingly complex and integrated satellite and terrestrial network ecosystem. This initiative will prepare the telecommunications workforce for the rapidly evolving technological landscape.
The entities will further establish a Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) Community. This collective will unite critical stakeholders, including mobile and satellite operators, fostering collective collaboration on innovative projects, consequently, shaping the future of NTN technologies. By bringing together industry leaders and experts, the community will act as a think tank to develop strategies, address challenges, and ensure the successful integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks.
Furthermore, European nations are investing in resilient satellite networks to safeguard communications against cyber threats and ensure operational continuity during crises. For example, the European Union’s GOVSATCOM initiative focuses on providing secure satellite communication services for government and military purposes.
Latest:
José María Álvarez-Pallete Re-Elected as GSMA Chair
GSMA Appoints New Director General
Futuristic Connectivity
One of ESA’s most significant telecom collaborations is its partnership with Deutsche Telekom, which solidified its commitment to building hybrid networks though a joint Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The partnership focuses on creating seamless connectivity across terrestrial, aerial, and satellite systems, aiming for more resilient and secure communication solutions to address future needs, particularly during network disruptions.
The initiative envisions using non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) to maintain connectivity in cases where ground-based infrastructure is compromised. Satellites or stratospheric platforms, such as high-altitude balloons or solar-powered gliders, could seamlessly replace damaged terrestrial networks, thus, ensuring continued communication for affected individuals or rescue teams.
NTNs enhance data-intensive operations like satellite imaging and Earth observation, enabling seamless 5G/6G integration for high-speed, low-latency communication. They also ensure resilient pathways, which are critical for space missions. NTNs also support IoT and M2M communication for autonomous systems, reduce costs through shared infrastructure, and drive innovation by leveraging AI and edge computing, making space exploration more efficient and accessible.
Furthermore, NTNs combine space-based satellites and stratospheric platforms, known as High-Altitude Platforms (HAPS), with ground-based networks. HAPS technologies include high-altitude balloons, airships, and solar-powered gliders capable of operating for extended periods. Together with satellites, these platforms aim to provide multidimensional, orchestrated networks that seamlessly transition across space, sky, and Earth layers.
Also Read: Deutsche Telekom, Keysight Test NB-IoT Early Adopter Program
Pioneering Space-Driven Connectivity
ESA is also capitalizing on the opportunity by initiating the next 5G/6G Hub expansion phase at the European Centre for Space Applications and Telecommunications (ECSAT) in Harwell, UK. This project, led by IT firm, CGI, with support from the UK Space Agency, aims to strengthen satellite-enabled communications and foster collaboration to accelerate Europe’s digital transformation. The project consortium includes satellite operators, Eutelsat and OneWeb, and mobile network operator, Vodafone.
The expansion includes new features such as satellite services, edge computing, multi-network orchestration, and environmental impact analysis. ESA expects to announce new collaboration opportunities in the coming months, enhancing the hub’s role as a central point for global partnerships.
Expert Insight: stc Group at Capacity Europe: An Optimal Model for Digital Transformation
Moreover, Telefónica and Sateliot have successfully extended a 5G network to space, marking a significant milestone in global connectivity. This breakthrough demonstration, witnessed by the European Space Agency, saw the seamless integration of Sateliot’s satellite network with Telefónica’s terrestrial network using a standard GSMA roaming process. A vital feature of the test was Sateliot’s patented “Store & Forward” technology, which allows devices to store data when satellites are out of position and then forward it once they re-enter a coverage area.
Integrating satellites with terrestrial NB-IoT networks facilitates global connectivity for IoT applications in unrelated terrestrial fields. For example, the integration improves maintenance efficiency for shipping companies and enhances crop monitoring for farmers. In 2024, Telefónica will provide its customers with worldwide NB-IoT connectivity through satellite and cellular networks. This integration sets the stage for a new era in IoT and communication, enabling global, cost-effective connectivity.
At the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus in Oxfordshire, O2 has launched the Darwin SatCom Lab, the UK’s first commercial laboratory for 5G and satellite communications. This innovative facility, part of Project Darwin and supported by O2 and the European Space Agency, allows businesses to test next-generation connectivity solutions for connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs). Combining 5G equipment from Nokia and satellite communications from Hispasat, the Darwin SatCom Lab facilitates the seamless monitoring of the CAV’s position, movement, and speed, with data displayed on screens at O2’s facilities in Glasgow and Slough.
Beyond immediate spatial use cases, the Darwin SatCom Lab will also beta monitor vehicle CO2 emissions using satellite imagery to assess the environmental impact of different routes. This data will identify how O2’s retail partners can optimize last-mile deliveries, enhancing sustainability by reducing emissions.
Related: ESA Launches New Rocket, Boosting Communication Satellite Capabilities
Space is Closer Than It Seems
The industry is on the brink of a revolutionary shift whereby space and telecommunications are set to converge, creating the next era of global connectivity. Through pioneering initiatives like ESA’s hybrid networks, Telefónica’s integration of satellite IoT, and O2’s cutting-edge 5G and satellite communications labs, the fusion of satellite and terrestrial systems is redefining how we communicate and enhancing network resilience, ensuring continuous connectivity in the face of challenges such as rural coverage, network disruptions, and disaster recovery.
These advancements are not only improving connectivity; they are driving innovation across industries, fostering sustainability, and enabling more brilliant, more efficient systems. By integrating space technology into terrestrial infrastructures, the industry is laying the groundwork for a more inclusive, reliable, and secure digital future.
