Sener takes part in Airbus UpNext SpaceRAN demonstrator

The Airbus UpNext SpaceRAN (Space Radio Access Network) demonstrator is a collaborative initiative to validate advanced 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) technologies for global connectivity from orbit. The goal of the programme is to establish a standardised, interoperable satellite communications capability that can serve commercial, defence, and governmental applications worldwide. Airbus UpNext leads this effort, leveraging software-defined satellite architectures to process and optimise 5G signals in space, reducing latency and enhancing throughput compared with traditional bent-pipe relay approaches.

Sener’s Role in Front-End Antenna Development
Within the SpaceRAN consortium, Sener has been contracted to design and build an in-flight prototype of the front-end antenna subsystem operating in the S-band. Sener’s work focuses on a narrowband, electronically steerable active antenna capable of smart beam control in orbit. This contract builds on Sener’s established expertise in satellite and defence antennas and its decade-long internal development of active antenna technology. The company’s participation underscores its growing capability in space communications equipment, extending from traditional passive antennas and RF subsystems to advanced active solutions for broadband and narrowband links.

Technical Context: 5G NTN and Software-Defined Satellites
The SpaceRAN demonstrator explores 5G NTN, which extends terrestrial 5G standards into orbit to support direct connectivity between satellites and user terminals without reliance on fixed ground gateways. Unlike conventional satellites that act as simple relays, SpaceRAN’s software-defined satellites are reconfigurable after launch and can process data onboard. This approach allows dynamic network management in space, potentially reducing latency, increasing spectral efficiency, and enabling direct user-to-user communications.

Strategic Differentiation and Competitive Positioning
The primary differentiation of SpaceRAN relative to existing offerings lies in its emphasis on standardisation and interoperability across the global NTN ecosystem. Current satellite communications solutions often rely on proprietary protocols and vendor-specific implementations, which can hinder seamless integration with terrestrial 5G networks and limit scalability. By advancing an open, standards-oriented architecture with multiple industry partners, the demonstrator aims to lower barriers to entry and reduce per-bit connectivity costs, offering a competitive alternative to closed systems in both commercial and government markets.

Consortium and Timeline
In addition to Sener, the SpaceRAN consortium includes aerospace and communications firms such as Aalyria, AccelerComm, CesiumAstro, Deutsche Telekom, Eutelsat, ITRI, Keysight Technologies, Onati, Radisys, and ST Engineering iDirect. The project is supported by the French government through the France 2030 investment plan under the Future Networks strategy. Initial results from the demonstrator are expected by 2028, with outcomes informing the development of 6G-era satellite communications and contributing to cost-effective global data services from orbit.

Implications for Space and Terrestrial Networks
If successful, SpaceRAN’s approach to 5G NTN could transform satellite connectivity by enabling seamless integration with terrestrial networks, improving global coverage and resilience. For commercial aviation, this technology promises higher operational efficiency and consistent passenger connectivity. In defence and government sectors, the combination of standardised protocols and secure communications may enhance situational awareness and enable faster decision cycles for distributed operations.

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