Airbus is developing the SpaceRAN demonstrator as part of its UpNext programme to explore how 5G connectivity can be extended beyond terrestrial networks using satellites. The initiative focuses on 5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN), where satellites act as “cell towers in space” to provide continuous coverage across land, sea and air. A key innovation is the use of software-defined satellites capable of processing and regenerating signals onboard, helping reduce latency, improve data throughput and optimize network routing.
The project will undergo ground-based validation followed by an in-orbit demonstration planned for 2027–2028. Airbus is focusing on validating technologies such as regenerative payloads and 5G-compatible Open RAN interfaces to enable seamless integration between satellite and terrestrial networks within a unified 5G NTN architecture.
Image generated by: Gemini