NTN will be key to the future 6G ecosystem, bridging the gap between traditional terrestrial networks and new space-based communications.
The 6G Non-Terrestrial Networks (6G-NTN) project has published a white paper looking at the future of connectivity in the 6G ecosystem.
The 6G-NTN project is funded by the Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking (SNS JU) under the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme.
The committee noted that the new white paper, titled “Vision for Non-Terrestrial Networks in 6G System (IMT-2030),” provides a comprehensive view of the importance of NTNs in the 6G space, identifying market segments, connection scenarios, and general design principles for NTN integration. It also proposes a standardization approach to ensure seamless integration and enhanced connectivity for users.
Non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) are communications networks that extend beyond the Earth’s surface to provide global or regional connectivity. These networks bridge the gap between traditional terrestrial networks, such as cell towers and fiber optic cables, and new space-based communications, and are crucial to the future 6G ecosystem.
Key findings from the white paper include:
– Market segment description: Consumers with smartphones and wearables are demanding greater coverage and seamless transitions between satellite and terrestrial networks. “Businesses operating in rural and developing regions need connectivity solutions in places where traditional terrestrial networks are unavailable. Additionally, certain industries such as aviation, rail and government have unique demands for autonomy, security and sovereignty,” the whitepaper states.
-Connectivity scenarios: NTN can provide direct access to smartphones and wearables even in bright indoor and in-car environments. It can enable broadband connectivity for land vehicles to accommodate passenger and driver services. “Drones can leverage NTN’s broadband for observation and communication purposes. NTN can also provide low-latency connectivity to homes and small offices to ensure a high-quality experience. In addition, it can provide high-speed broadband for transportation platforms to support assistance and entertainment services, as well as rapid connectivity deployment for public works and public safety in operational areas.”
The white paper also outlines several key requirements for effectively integrating NTNs with traditional terrestrial networks, including integration at the network and service management level, low latency to enable a high-quality user experience, and the ability to contribute to ubiquitous and resilient connectivity.
The whitepaper states that as part of the work towards Release 20, initial studies on use cases and service requirements will be initiated, followed by technical studies on system architecture and radio protocols/access: “The first requirements studies will be approved in September 2024, followed by technical studies in June 2025. It is essential for these studies to look for a common technical framework (architecture and protocols) that natively supports both terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks and avoids specific add-ons for support of NTNs. Development of technical specifications at the system level and radio access network level is expected to begin as part of Release 21.”
6G systems are expected to be commercially available by 2030. The first phase of standardization is expected to begin from 2025.
