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.

Satellite for 5G

Completed and Running Activities for 5G SatCom

ESA Satellite for 5G Initiative - VIDEO

[PDF] Satellite is 5G - SATis5 Whitepaper

[PDF] ASCENT strategic recommendations - Whitepaper

News and Events

ESA agreement with GSMA accelerates satcom network integration for mobile industry

The European Space Agency (ESA) has signed a landmark agreement with GSMA, heralding a major step forward in links between the mobile and satellite industries, and the accelerated integration of satellite-terrestrial connectivity.
Non-Terrestrial Networks are the leitmotif at EuCNC & 6G Summit 2023

In a workshop jointly organised by ESA and Eurescom GmbH in June in Gothenburg, Non-Terrestrial Networks – or ‘NTNs’ turned out to be the major talking point – and quite possibly the hottest topic on the table.
Aligning European NTN Convergence and Integration

3GPP has completed Release-17 of the global fifth generation (5G) wireless technology standard, making Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) and satellite segments part of the 5G/6G connectivity infrastructure and ecosystem. NTN multi-layer systems and…
SatixFy Prime 1 beamformer chip breaks into new 5G terrestrial market

SatixFy have agreed the first sale of their Prime 1 beamformer into the terrestrial 5G market, in a significant deal with India-based Astrome. Developed with the support of the UK Space Agency via the European Space Agency’s ARTES Core…
Space helps everyone stay connected

Keeping connected always to everyone and everything whether in remote areas or travelling by car, boat or plane is crucial in today’s digital world.

ESA is collaborating with telecommunications company Deutsche Telekom to help improve…
UKSA ARTES Telecoms Webinar

The ESA 5G/6G Team & UK Space Agency will announce significant funding linked to space-enabled 5G solutions, opening opportunities for industry to develop innovative services related to hybrid terrestrial-satellite communication.
ESA experiences COP27 using a space-empowered metaverse

ESA has created a space-inspired virtual environment to enable its workforce to experience the COP27 climate summit – which is being held in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt – without the environmental cost of travelling.
Space-enabled 5G links Japan and Europe

Engineers have connected Japan and Europe via space-enabled next-generation 5G telecommunication links. It is the first time that such an intercontinental connection has been established between Europe and Japan.
ESA industry day celebrates UK innovation

British companies are using satellite-enabled connectivity to accelerate the digital transformation of the European economy – as highlighted at an industry showcase held in the UK.
Space-enabled 5G to help reach remote and dangerous places

Engineers have used converged satellite and terrestrial networks to communicate with a nimble four-legged robot designed to explore environments that are too risky for people to access.
ESA boosts the satellite-enabled 5G media market

Film fans, gamers and future metaverse users will be able to experience high-quality videos, games and extended reality environments live and uninterrupted from anywhere, as satellites link up with terrestrial-based next-generation 5G and 6G…
Space-enabled 5G links Japan and Europe

Engineers have connected Japan and Europe via space-enabled next-generation 5G telecommunication links. It is the first time that such an intercontinental connection has been established between Europe and Japan.