Airbus demonstrator to test global 5G connectivity in orbit

Image copyright Airbus

This demonstrator aims to explore the 5G NTN, a versatile connectivity technology compatible with all types of business applications. Whether for commercial, defence or governmental use, it will confirm the feasibility of providing universal connectivity that is standardised, interoperable and globally available. 

Airbus UpNext SpaceRAN will leverage Airbus’ software-defined satellite1 capabilities to manage and optimise 5G signals in orbit. By processing data directly in space rather than simply relaying it, the demonstrator2 will prove that Airbus  can reduce latency, maximise data throughput and enable more efficient network management and routing, opening the door to user to user direct connectivity.

“The successful exploration of this technology will unlock advantages across various sectors. For commercial aviation, it holds the potential to boost operational efficiency and simplify interoperability, all while enabling enhanced passenger experiences,” said Michael Augello, CEO of Airbus UpNext. “Similarly, for the military and government sectors, it aims to provide more resilient and secure communications, supporting improved situational awareness and accelerating real-time decision-making.”

To bring this initiative to life, Airbus has assembled a consortium of partners, including Aalyria, AccelerComm, CesiumAstro, Deutsche Telekom, Eutelsat, the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), Keysight Technologies, Onati, Radisys, Sener and ST Engineering iDirect.

Southampton based AccelerComm, which provides flight-proven high-performance 5G technology for satellite networks, is working closely with Airbus UpNext to integrate its 5G PHY solution into the new platform, supporting both ground-based testing and in-orbit validation of 5G NTN functionality. This collaboration will underscore the advantages of deploying full 5G base station capabilities in space, enabling more efficient network management, improved routing and new forms of direct connectivity.

Unlike conventional satellite systems that simply relay signals, Airbus UpNext SpaceRAN is designed to process and manage 5G signals directly in orbit. AccelerComm’s technology supports this approach by delivering a high performance, space-proven physical layer capable of operating within the strict size, weight and power constraints of satellite platforms, while maintaining high throughput, low latency and compliance with 3GPP 5G standards. 

AccelerComm’s patented hardware acceleration technology increases satellite throughput by as much as 10 times versus software-only solutions, significantly improving the productivity and business case for satellite constellations.
 
David Helfgott, CEO of AccelerComm said: “We are delighted to be collaborating with Airbus UpNext on this new demonstrator, which represents a major step forward in the evolution of standardised 5G connectivity beyond terrestrial networks.

“AccelerComm’s role in this programme reflects our deep expertise in delivering high-performance, space-qualified 5G physical layer technology, already deployed on a large number of operational communication satellites. By delivering 5G processing in orbit, we are helping to lay the foundations for interoperable, non-proprietary satellite networks that integrate seamlessly with terrestrial infrastructure.”

Developed as part of Air!5G, a project supported by the French government through the France 2030 investment plan under the Future Networks strategy, this demonstrator is expected to show its first results by 2028. It will be key to preparing the next generation of wireless technology (6G) and eventually driving down the cost of orbital data transmission.