As the deployment of public and private 5G networks gains momentum in the consumer and industrial communications markets, the convergence of ground- and space-based resources continues to become increasingly important to many stakeholders. With the emergence of “new space”, the democratization of satellite access, the introduction of common standards and the widespread participation of leading technology developers, network hybridization is one of the key trends in today’s connectivity market.
Historically, the performance of satellite networks has been limited to applications that do not require high data rates or low latency. With satellite constellations now in low Earth orbit (LEO), we can now consider usages and data flows that are compatible with terrestrial 5G.
By combining the power of terrestrial networks with the flexibility of low earth orbit constellations, hybrid 5G brings new opportunities for businesses and paves the way for 5G NTN (non-terrestrial networks).
Hybrid networks can be used for two main purposes:
- Expand operator network coverage for personal and business users.
- Create connectivity bubbles in industrial and security fields, such as mobile asset tracking.
Social issues of hybridization
Digital access has become a fundamental necessity not only for businesses but also for citizens. White zones with zero connectivity will account for 2% of France’s population in 2023, most of whom will live in remote rural and mountainous areas. At the same time, mobile and internet coverage remains very limited in the “gray zone”, which currently accounts for 38% of the French population.
Currently, satellites are the only solution to maintaining regional balance. Deploying fiber or installing 4G or 5G antennas in sparsely populated areas is not an economical or sustainable alternative. The obvious solution? Develop hybrid coverage using complementary terrestrial and space networks to provide “seamless” broadband connectivity.
Solutions to public safety problems
Combining terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks also provides viable solutions to issues related to the safety of both people and assets. First and foremost, there is a connectivity bubble (or “tactical bubble”) in defense and security.
In the event of a fire, flood or earthquake, satellites can be deployed even if terrestrial networks are cut off or saturated. These connectivity bubbles deployed onshore support operations in the field. Use satellites to restore connectivity with the outside world beyond the affected area.
Technological responses to modern industrial problems
The same logic applies to industrial activities that operate in remote locations where terrestrial communication methods are prohibited or technologically complex (offshore wind farms, rural solar farms, mountain dams, etc.).
Supply chain actors may also need to monitor mobile assets. Satellites provide a global, continuous, and cost-competitive way to track assets across multimodal supply chains (sea, rail, and air).
Critical infrastructure and operations are key areas for using hybrid network technology. This is especially true with the increasing adoption of 5G as a replacement for outdated Tetra technology.
Complex assembly in a fragmented ecosystem
The introduction of hybrid networks has revolutionized the entire communications value chain.
Operators and enterprises need a thorough understanding of new technology concepts from a wide range of stakeholders to ensure end-to-end implementation.
First of all, you need to understand how networks are interconnected, i.e. what their architecture is. What are the physical links between the network cores? What are the antenna types?
What are the network load shifts between devices and wireless equipment (e.g., what are the connections from ground relay antennas to space? What are the direct links from equipment to space?), or how can these be maximized? How can we use 5G flagship modules (network slicing, MEC, etc.) to leverage hybrid setups?
Next, dependencies on the chip and terminal industry must be considered. What connectivity roadmap do we have? What capabilities do we need to achieve what performance? How much sovereignty do we have over network and equipment provision?
Network expansion is a big problem for carriers, who are currently not accustomed to interconnecting their networks with the space industry. There are many factors to consider (roaming agreements, new network architecture, equipment certification, etc.). To guarantee quality service to both private and business clients, they must be managed with the utmost care. Finally, we need to find viable economic and environmental models that ensure virtuous, profitable, and useful innovations.
The beginning of history and the importance of experience for clear understanding
In this difficult situation, Capgemini and the European Space Agency are collaborating on a hybrid network. His 5G lab at Capgemini in Paris and his ESA’s 5G/6G hub in Oxford (UK) are interconnected via a network of low-orbit satellites.
The current 5G satellite initiative aims to test the technological means and value chain between terrestrial 5G and satellite 5G from 2024. The objective is to highlight the availability and operational feasibility of this hybridization.
The potential offered by hybrid networks is enormous and will be fully understood as technology solutions, standards, and models mature. The pace of the market and key trends, combined with the maturation of 5G networks, pose major technical challenges that need immediate attention.
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