Direct-to-device connectivity from space and why we need it: ESA releases new white paper
European Space Agency's (ESA) Connectivity and Secure Communications has released a new white paper – published under the Space for 5G/6G and Sustainable Connectivity programme of ESA’s Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES) – that explores how European industry as well as lawmakers can capitalise on the opportunities created by advancing direct-to-device (D2D) technology; from sustainability solutions; all the way to disaster response.
The paper, titled Converging Earth and Space: Direct-to-Device Connectivity via Satellite, highlights the importance of the introduction of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standard – an international protocol for cellular technology – that allows for seamless connectivity and exchange of information between devices in a local ecosystem. Modern non-terrestrial networks are also ever more frequently designed with built-in compatibility with 3GPP, opening the door to seamless connectivity between them and the ground.
These innovations are not only an opportunity, but also a necessity. In an environment comprised of ever more interconnected devices, the need for ubiquitous connectivity anywhere and anytime on Earth has become a fact of life. Systems such as the Internet of Things (IoT) sensors are already used in anything from agriculture, through to logistics and heavy industry. At the same time, it is estimated that 2.6 billion people still lack reliable mobile broadband coverage globally. As a result, gaps in terrestrial networks coverage affect not only private citizens, but businesses and entire industries. This is why unlocking the potential of convergence between ground and space-based networks is a key to maintaining Europe’s competitiveness and technological sovereignty.
ESA remains an active contributor to this shift through its Space for 5G/6G and Sustainable Connectivity programme. The paper also recognises the need for a coordinated approach, and lays out a roadmap identifying three critical periods for the D2D development: the foundation and early validation of technologies that’s currently taking place, followed by maturation and pre-commercial pilots expected to emerge towards the end of 2020s. Finally, around 2028 and onwards, the paper predicts mature D2D technologies to be deployed as fully operational services.
The push for a more coordinated approach to the revolution in how we see and use connectivity infrastructure is also reflected by ESA’s Non-Terrestrial Networks Forum that fosters exchange of expertise and views among all stakeholders involved in telecommunications.
“Our white paper takes no shortcuts in calling on both lawmakers and industry to embrace the opportunity carried by the revolution in non-terrestrial networks that is happening before our eyes,” said Antonio Franchi, the Head of ESA’s Space for 5G/6G and Sustainable Connectivity programme. “The Space for 5G/6G programme helps lay out the path to a more standardised, integrated and coherent connectivity architecture. Only then, will we use the resources we have to the fullest in building the direct-to-device connectivity infrastructure worthy of the 21st century economies of ESA’s Member States.”