Keysight Technologies is collaborating with Airbus UpNext on the SpaceRAN demonstrator, a program focused on validating 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN) capabilities using software-defined satellite technology. The initiative targets both ground-based testing and an in-orbit demonstration aboard a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite, addressing the technical challenges of integrating terrestrial and satellite networks.
As part of the ground demonstration phase, Keysight is supplying satellite channel emulation and user-equipment emulation tools to test core 5G NTN functions. These include beam handover, gateway handover, and mobility management across terrestrial and non-terrestrial domains—capabilities viewed as prerequisites for broadband and direct-to-handheld services from space.
The SpaceRAN program will culminate in the deployment of a regenerative payload on an Airbus LEO satellite, incorporating onboard signal processing and integrated gNodeB functionality. The project aligns with industry efforts to develop standardized, interoperable 5G NTN architectures that support sovereign connectivity objectives while enabling seamless global coverage.
- Focus on 5G NTN ground testing ahead of in-orbit validation
- Emulation of satellite channels and user segments to validate mobility and handover
- Regenerative LEO payload with integrated gNodeB for flexible network operation
- Emphasis on standardized, non-proprietary NTN architectures
Eric Taylor, Vice President of Aerospace, Defense and Government Solutions at Keysight, said the collaboration supports the reliability and performance requirements of next-generation satellite-enabled 5G networks and advances standardized NTN deployment from LEO.
🌐 Analysis
The SpaceRAN demonstrator reflects growing momentum behind 3GPP-aligned 5G NTN architectures as satellite operators and aerospace firms push toward tighter integration with terrestrial networks. Similar efforts by other LEO programs increasingly emphasize regenerative payloads and onboard processing to reduce latency and improve spectral efficiency, positioning NTN as a complement to terrestrial 5G rather than a parallel system.
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