Demonstration of Advanced Regenerative 5G NTN NR Satellite Base Station Prototype

Navigating the cost, and technical challenges to effectively harness emerging space-based 5G telecommunications is a critical investment decision. Satellite-based 5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN) present significant opportunities for global commercial and governmental data communications and business ventures. A central issue in these decisions is selecting the optimal variant (or combination of variants) of 5G NTN architecture offering the best technical solutions while considering implementation schedules as well as near and long-term investment perspectives. Currently 3GPP has two NTN architectures in play: transparent mode and regenerative mode. Transparent mode was codified in 3GPP Release 17, while regenerative mode standards are still finalizing. However, regenerative provides efficiencies and capabilities to best serve more users in more locations. This paper describes a demonstration of a successfully implemented and lab-validated 5G NTN New Radio (NR) regenerative payload suitable for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites that will be in-orbit later in 2024.