Space-dependent systems or applications that can benefit from the reliability of space assets span both the public and private sectors.

European governments, institutions, agencies and private operators in charge of security services such as civil protection, border control, air and sea traffic management, health, education, energy, finance and security solutions have to meet the highest levels of operational standards.

They all need secure, sustainable and resilient connectivity and its seamless integration into their terrestrial operational components.

Satellite for 5G

Connectivity has become the backbone of the modern world, and its evolution a key indicator and driver of growth in the economy. As such, connectivity needs to be efficient, reliable, and constantly improving to lead and support the increasingly digital world.

The evolution of mobile networks is constantly accelerating. A few decades ago, communication technologies took many years to be standardised, developed, and deployed. Today they do so in much less time due to the immense number of innovative resources and technological advances which facilitate complex developments and open doors to new stakeholders.

The 5G/6G Hub – based at ESA’s European Centre for Space Applications and Telecommunications (ECSAT) at Harwell in the UK – is a place for collaboration, where start-ups, SMEs and Industry can develop products and services using state-of-the-art 5G integrated terrestrial-satellite equipment. The facility will be a catalyst for new innovative applications that benefit society and the environment in the context of the future 5G-based economy. The 5G/6G Hub is a center of excellence where the immense potential of converged satellite and terrestrial telecommunications networks will be explored, for the benefit of Europe and beyond.