Advances in 5G standards have created opportunities to integrate non-terrestrial networks (NTN) into a global interoperable wireless experience - opening new connectivity options for mobile broadband, cellular, wide and local area IoT, and more, so it’s no wonder that there is a surge in innovation and investment. This Roundtable brings together experts, startups, telcos, and investors who are working on this evolving communications infrastructure in the sky.
Silicon Valley, California, November 7, 2024/Meeting Recap/ Telecom Council's Roundtable on Non-Terrestrial Networks took place on November 6, 2024, hosted by the Council at the JJ Lake workspace in Mountain View, with approximately 25 attendees. It’s not the 1960s, but space is hot again! The meeting focused on the rocketing field of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), exploring how satellite and high-altitude platforms are revolutionizing global connectivity. This sector is of significant interest within the broader telecom industry, as demonstrated by the GSMA's projection that the global space economy will reach $1 trillion by 2040.
Key contributors to the meeting included Roger Lanctot (President, Mobile Satellite Users Association and Independent Consultant), who provided a market overview, and Roundtable Discussion leaders James Zik (VP of Product Management, PCTEL), and Emanuel Maceira of FloLive, who led a discussion on the technical aspects of 5G NTN, including network architecture, capacity, IoT, and quality of service.
The meeting highlighted the increasing convergence of space-based communications with traditional cellular and terrestrial networks. While NTNs offer unique capabilities in terms of global reach and augmenting cellular coverage, they also present a potential competitive threat to existing infrastructure providers. This is particularly true for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, which, thanks to innovations in launch technology and reusable rockets, are becoming increasingly cost-effective to deploy. LEOs, while requiring a larger number of satellites for comprehensive coverage compared to geostationary satellites (GEOs), offer advantages in terms of bandwidth capacity and lower latency, posing a strategic challenge to traditional GEO operators.
The meeting also delved into the various technological approaches to NTN, including LEOs, GEOs, and high-altitude platforms. Each technology presents unique benefits and challenges in terms of coverage, cost, and performance. For instance, while LEOs offer lower latency and higher bandwidth, GEOs provide wider coverage with fewer satellites. High-altitude platforms, such as airships, offer a compelling alternative for localized coverage with flexible deployment options.
The current landscape of NTN offerings is primarily focused on two main categories: high-speed internet connections requiring dedicated customer equipment, and direct-to-device (cellphone D2D) connections with limited bandwidth for basic communication services like text messaging. The latter category D2D, while promising in its potential to extend connectivity to even the most remote areas, faces significant challenges in terms of capacity, spectrum rights, technology standardization, regulatory compliance, and rigorous testing. With time, these will be overcome.
The importance of NTN in the current era of global connectivity cannot be overstated. As the demand for ubiquitous internet access continues to grow, NTNs offer a critical solution for bridging the digital divide and extending connectivity to underserved populations and remote regions. Furthermore, NTNs play a crucial role in enabling emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), where devices can be connected regardless of their location. The integration of NTNs with terrestrial networks is crucial for creating robust and resilient connectivity solutions that can cater to the diverse needs of individuals and businesses worldwide. Finally we will have the thing that was promised at the turn of the century: connectivity Any data, Anytime, Anyplace
The innovators and startups participating in the meeting addressed a range of key topics, including:
These presentations triggered productive business engagements between the presenters and the audience, facilitating valuable networking opportunities during the breaks and lunch. The Telecom Council's commitment to promoting such interactions underscores its mission to accelerate the development and deployment of innovative technologies within the telecom industry. By creating a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing, the Council aims to reduce the time it takes for members and innovators to forge partnerships, ultimately leading to the faster delivery of real-world solutions to customers.
Thaks to our presenters and panelists for sharing their expertise and insights. All presentations from the meeting will be available in the Telecom Council's Member Library.