PAGE CONTENTS
Objectives
The Tech2CONNECT project, led by CONNECTED, aims to develop the necessary building blocks for a comprehensive IoT narrowband connectivity solution.
In the Definition Phase, the project focuses on identifying user needs and respective use cases, defining high-level technical and operational requirements and constraints, and establishing the foundation for the IoT connectivity service. This includes mission concept development, feasibility analysis of critical technology components, and stakeholder consultations to ensure alignment with market demands and the regulatory framework.
The Technology Phase concentrates on refining and verifying the Space and Network segments. It involves the design, development, and testing of an initial payload prototype, including hardware and firmware, and the definition and implementation of a lower-level network architecture supporting 5G IoT NTN communication protocol stacks. The phase culminates with the full validation of an Engineering Model, demonstrating service functionalities on ground and preparing for future integration into third-party platforms.
These efforts are part of a long-term strategy to establish a 5G IoT space-based connectivity service, sustainable, affordable and standardise for everyone, everything, everywhere.
Challenges
Tech2CONNECT faces several key challenges, starting with the design and development of a payload that remains platform-agnostic, ensuring compatibility with a full rideshare constellation. Achieving this flexibility while meeting service requirements presents significant technical hurdles. Additionally, the project tackles the complexities of implementing a 5G IoT NTN protocol stack, which in 2024 has yet to be demonstrated in space, posing both technical and operational challenges. Regulatory complexities also arise, particularly with respect to using standard frequency bands for NTN, requiring careful navigation of spectrum allocation and international regulations to ensure compliance.
System Architecture
The system architecture is composed of three integrated segments: Space, Ground, and Network. These segments work together to provide seamless IoT connectivity, ensuring high-quality service and efficient operations.
The Space Segment is centred around the Non-Terrestrial Integrated Communication Management System (NT.ICMS) payload, which acts as the IoT gateway, integrating both 5G NB-IoT and LoRa protocols. Hosted on third-party platforms, the payload uses flexible rideshare options, reducing costs and offering scalability. The NT.ICMS features a regenerative architecture, enabling onboard data processing to reduce latency and improve communication efficiency.
The Ground Segment includes User Equipment (UE) and standard IoT ground devices that communicates directly with the NT.ICMS, using standard and compatible chipsets. Ground stations provide telemetry, tracking, and control, as well as data downlink, forming the bridge between space assets and the network infrastructure.
The Network Segment connects the space and ground components into a unified system. Data from UEs is transmitted through satellites to ground stations and processed via Connected’s digital infrastructure. This data can be integrated with Mobile Network Operators’ terrestrial networks or directed to end-user applications.
This architecture ensures reliable, cost-effective, and flexible IoT connectivity, supporting diverse applications while maintaining compliance with evolving communication standards.
Plan
The Tech2CONNECT programme framework is structured to cover all the ARTES typical phases, from Definition to Demonstration.
The Definition Phase spans 9 months and encompasses requirements gathering, user needs assessment, and technical feasibility studies. Key milestones include the Mid-Term Review and the Final Review, which validate the project’s foundational elements and prepare for further development.
The Technology Phase lasts for 16 months and focuses on developing and testing the Engineering Model of the NT.ICMS payload. Milestones include the Requirements Review, Preliminary Design Review, Test Readiness Review, and Completion Review, ensuring the system’s design, testing, and validation are rigorously assessed.
Current Status
Within the Tech2CONNECT project Connected has successfully completed the Definition Phase and is currently in the Technology Phase. Ongoing work includes the derivation of system requirements, payload concept design, and interface analysis for the NT.ICMS. This involves refining high-level requirements and deriving lower-level ones for the space segment, while also assessing and defining interfaces with third-party platforms. Concurrently, the high-level architecture of the protocol stack is also being defined, with key requirements being established and a detailed implementation plan under development, ensuring a strong foundation for the project’s technical objectives.
