Space for 5G and 6G

5G and 6G are the next two generations of cellular connectivity and the next big leap forward for terrestrial and satellite telecommunications.

They will allow us to be connected to everything, everywhere, at any time and nearly any speed. Satellites and space technologies are instrumental to build and operate such future 5G and 6G networks. They offer unique advantages in terms of security, resilience, coverage, and mobility; they remain the only way to make 5G and 6G available everywhere, accessible to enterprises and citizens all across Europe. ESA`s strategic programme line Space for 5G & 6G demonstrates the essential nature of satellites for 5G and 6G. It sets the standards and frameworks for hybrid and downstream interoperability, as well as the base for integrating terrestrial networks with satellites.

We build innovation hubs and testbeds for 5G and 6G pilots and trials.

We draw technology and product roadmaps; we support and foster the development of integrated value-added applications and services. Space for 5G & 6G:

We help overcome the digital divide.

We connect Europe.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact us at 5g@esa.int

 

OUR ACTIVITIES

Space for 5G Space for 6G Space for 5G/6G

 

Related Links

ESA-STAR Publication System

2024 Work Plan

2025 Work Plan

 

 

NEWS AND EVENTS

ESA and GSMA to support three 5G/6G-NTN innovation challenges for global seamless connectivity

The European Space Agency (ESA) and Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) Foundry announced at MWC25 Barcelona, Spain, an ESA-funding round to support three innovation challenges.

ESA and the Mobile Satellite Services Association forge partnership to drive space-based 5G/6G netwo…

The European Space Agency (ESA) has signed a Memorandum of Intent (MoI) with the Mobile Satellite Services Association (MSSA), taking a further step towards transforming the future of global connectivity.

ESA white paper to optimise performance and operations for 6G Non-Terrestrial Networks

The European Space Agency (ESA), together with a consortium of European satellite industry, terrestrial technology providers and terrestrial mobile network operators, have released a study to investigate and optimise…

ESA and Seamless Air Alliance drive 5G Non-Terrestrial Network connectivity for aviation

The European Space Agency (ESA) and Seamless Air Alliance (SAA) have made key achievements in the development of 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) for aviation connectivity.

ESA’s 5G/6G Hub introduces new 5G- millimetre-wave capabilities

The European Space Agency (ESA) has signed a contract with Poland-based Creotech Instruments S.A. and Microamp Solutions to develop 5G-millimetre-wave (mmWave) capabilities, providing ultra-low latency that is critical…

ESA, Telesat and Amarisoft achieve world-first 5G 3GPP Non-Terrestrial Network link over LEO

ESA and Telesat have reported a groundbreaking milestone in telecommunications technology, successfully establishing the world's first 3GPP Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) link over Low Earth Orbit (LEO) between the ESTEC 5G Laboratory and the…

ESA project pioneers AI enhanced 5G and high-resolution imaging solutions

ESA’s Space for 5G/6G and Sustainable Connectivity programme line is playing a pivotal role in bridging technological frontiers, demonstrating how space-enabled networks can transform business capabilities through the…

ESA and Telesat showcase the potential of Non-Terrestrial Networks for timing and positioning

ESA, in collaboration with Telesat (Nasdaq and TSX: TSAT), has achieved a significant milestone in developing future satellite Internet technology, successfully testing new 5G capabilities that could revolutionise how businesses and individuals…

ESA study sets path for European 5G space networks

ESA, together with a consortium of European satellite industry and satellite and terrestrial 5G technology providers, has developed a study to assess future 5G space-based infrastructures and their associated system…

ESA boosts Italian agriculture and disaster response through 5G satellites

Satellite 5G capabilities are growing in their importance across businesses and society. ESA’s 5G-HOST-SAT (5G Hub Over-The-Air Vertical Segment Validations) project is working to support the digitisation and greening of the…

ESA project to revolutionise communication of media content with satellite-enhanced 5G networks

ESA’s 5G-EMERGE project, as part of its Space for 5G/6G and Sustainable Connectivity programme, is expanding its scope to meet the growing needs of media distribution as it moves into its second phase.

ESA’s Xtend 5G project to develop an independent hybrid satellite connectivity system

ESA is working with Forsway, a provider of cost-efficient hybrid satellite terrestrial solutions and equipment for broadband connectivity, to develop a two-way/ hybrid satellite connectivity system.