5G NTN Satellite Network Testing and Emulation Partnership

Keysight Technologies is collaborating with Airbus UpNext on the SpaceRAN (Space Radio Access Network) demonstrator, an initiative aimed at validating and advancing 5G non-terrestrial network technology. The project addresses critical technical challenges in achieving seamless integration between terrestrial and satellite networks and targets future applications including broadband and direct-to-handheld services.

Background and Strategic Context
Non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) extend 5G connectivity beyond terrestrial infrastructure by incorporating satellites into the radio access network. Standardizing NTN technology is essential to enable interoperability with existing 3GPP 5G networks, to support global coverage, and to reduce reliance on proprietary systems that often hinder broad adoption. The Airbus UpNext SpaceRAN demonstrator contributes to this standardization effort by exploring the technical and operational feasibility of NTN implementations that process 5G signals in orbit rather than merely relaying them.

Technical Focus of the Collaboration
During the ground-based phase of the SpaceRAN project, Keysight is supplying advanced test and measurement solutions designed to emulate key aspects of satellite communications and user equipment behavior. Tools such as satellite channel emulation and user segment emulation enable rigorous validation of core NTN functions, including beam handover, gateway handover and mobility management between terrestrial and non-terrestrial components. These capabilities help address performance and reliability concerns that differentiate robust NTN deployments from earlier, less sophisticated satellite communications approaches.

The demonstrator will culminate with the deployment of a regenerative payload on an Airbus low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite, incorporating on-board signal processing and integrated 5G gNodeB functionality. By processing signals in space, the system aims to reduce latency and improve network flexibility compared to traditional bent-pipe satellite architectures that only relay signals between ground stations.

Differentiation Against Competitive Technologies
Unlike conventional satellite systems that function largely as transparent relays, the SpaceRAN approach with regenerative payloads and software-defined satellite technology seeks to advance capabilities such as direct-to-handheld service and dynamic network management from orbit. This strategy aligns with broader industry efforts to develop non-proprietary, interoperable NTN ecosystems that integrate seamlessly with terrestrial 5G infrastructure, rather than isolated proprietary solutions. Standardization and interoperability are key differentiators positioning this collaboration ahead of bespoke or closed systems that may limit global reach or device compatibility.

Relevance to Industry and Future Networks
The collaboration supports wider industry and regional objectives, including strengthening technological sovereignty and fostering an interoperable global communications ecosystem. By contributing to standardised NTN validation and testing, the initiative aims to reduce technical risk for operators and accelerate adoption. This groundwork is expected to influence future wireless generations, potentially including early elements of 6G architectures that further integrate space-based and terrestrial networks.

The Keysight-Airbus UpNext SpaceRAN partnership represents a concerted industry effort to tackle the technical challenges of 5G NTN deployment. Through comprehensive ground testing, hardware-in-the-loop emulation, and in-orbit demonstration, the project aims to advance standardized, interoperable satellite network technologies that complement terrestrial 5G, extend global coverage, and support next-generation connectivity applications.

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