Alali Khalaf, RF Optimization & Planning Engineer

Eng. Al Ali Khalaf 📩 khalaf.thaier.777@gmail.com | 🔗 www.linkedin.com/in/alali-khalaf

Architecture and Use Cases

NTN
Prepare to discover
Eng. Al Ali Khalaf

INTRODUCTION
In today’s world, staying connected is more important
than ever. Traditional cellular networks, like 4G and 5G,
rely on ground-based infrastructure such as cell towers
to deliver internet and communication services. While
these networks work well in cities and towns, they
have limitations. Remote areas, oceans, and disaster-
stricken zones often lack coverage because building
and maintaining infrastructure in these locations is
challenging or impractical.
This is where Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) come
in. NTNs use technologies like satellites, High Altitude
Platform Stations (HAPS), and Unmanned Aerial
Systems (UAS) to provide connectivity in places where
traditional networks can’t reach. Whether it’s remote
regions, vast oceans, or even the skies, NTNs are
designed to fill these coverage gaps and ensure
reliable communication everywhere.
Eng. Al Ali Khalaf

ARCHITECTURE
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NTN CONNECTS THREE MAIN COMPONENTS

HOW DOES NTN WORK?
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1. SPACE SEGMENT
NTN (Non-Terrestrial Networks) connects three main components to provide internet and mobile
services in areas where traditional ground-based networks can’t reach. Here’s how it works:
Space Segment

The Space Segment is all about the satellites and other airborne systems that orbit the Earth or
operate in the stratosphere. These systems send and receive signals & Datat to and from the
ground, acting as the backbone of NTN.
Here’s what it includes:

1. Satellites : Satellites are the primary components of the Space Segment. They orbit the Earth at
different altitudes, depending on their mission and the type of coverage they provide. Here are the
three main types of satellite orbits:
a. LEO (Low Earth Orbit ‘’160–2,000 km above Earth’’): Closer to Earth, providing faster
connections and lower delays. Requires many satellites for global coverage ‘’Starlink uses
thousands of LEO satellites’’
b. MEO (Medium Earth Orbit‘’2,000–35,786 km above Earth’’): Offers a balance between
coverage and delay, ‘’GPS Satellites’’
c. GEO (Geostationary Orbit ’’35,786 km above Earth’’): Far from Earth, providing consistent
coverage over large areas but with higher delays. ‘’Satellite TV‘’
1. SPACE SEGMENT
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Space Segment – HAPS (High Altitude Platform Stations)

2. HAPS: are systems like balloons, airships, or solar-powered aircraft that

operate in the stratosphere, about 20–50 km above Earth, Example: ‘’Google
Loon’’Google’s Project Loon used high-altitude balloons to provide internet
access to remote areas.

Space Segment – UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems)

3. UAS: are drones or unmanned aircraft that operate at lower altitudes than
HAPS
Example :AT&T’s Flying COW ‘’Cell on Wings’’: A drone that provides temporary
cellular coverage during events or disasters.

The Space Segment is the core of NTN. Without satellites, HAPS, or UAS,
there would be no way to provide connectivity in remote areas, disaster
zones, or other hard-to-reach places. These systems enable global
communication, internet access, and emergency services even where
traditional networks can’t reach.
 Eng. Al Ali Khalaf

Space Segment

Component What It Does Example

Provide fast, low-latency connections but require many satellites Starlink uses thousands of LEO satellites for
LEO Satellites
for coverage. global internet coverage.

GPS satellites provide accurate location data

MEO Satellites Offer a balance between coverage and delay.
worldwide.

Provide consistent coverage over large areas but with higher DirecTV uses GEO satellites to broadcast TV
GEO Satellites
delays. channels to millions of homes.

Google Loon used balloons to provide internet

HAPS Act as floating cell towers in the stratosphere.
access in remote areas.

AT&T’s Flying COW drone provides temporary

UAS Act as temporary cell towers at lower altitudes.
cellular coverage during events or disasters.
2. GROUND SEGMENT
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Ground Segment
The Ground Segment is the part of the NTN system located on Earth. It connects the satellite to the internet
and mobile networks, ensuring seamless communication between the satellite and users. Here’s what it
includes:
1. Antennas:
Send and receive signals to/from the satellite.
2. Gateways:
Act as the bridge between the satellite and the core network.
Process and manage data, ensuring it flows smoothly between the satellite and the internet.
3. Base Stations:
Distribute satellite signals to local users in specific areas (Like remote villages).
Act as local hubs for connecting user devices (phones or VSAT terminals) to the satellite network.
4. Operations Centers:
Network Operations Center (NOC): Monitors and manages the network infrastructure (ground stations,
gateways, and user connections).
Mission Operations Center (MOC): Controls the satellites, ensuring they are healthy, in the correct orbit,
and functioning as intended, Manages satellite payloads and mission objectives.
5. Telemetry, Tracking, and Command (TT&C) Stations:
Monitor satellite health (like power levels, temperature).
Track satellite position and send commands to adjust orbits or fix issues.
EXPLAIN THE GROUND SEGMENT AS IF YOU WERE A STARLINK Eng. Al Ali Khalaf

SUBSCRIBER
Ground Segment Explained for a Starlink Subscriber

As a Starlink subscriber, you’re using a satellite internet service that relies on the Ground Segment to connect you to the internet. Here’s how
it works, from your device to the internet and back:
1. Your Device (User Equipment) : Your device (laptop) sends and receives data to/from the satellite.
You type a website address (www.google.com) into your browser.
2.Starlink Dish (VSAT Terminal) : Your Starlink dish is a Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT). It communicates directly with the Starlink
satellites in space.
Your Starlink dish sends your request for www.google.com to the nearest Starlink satellite
3. Starlink Satellite (Space Segment): The satellite acts as a relay between your dish and the Ground Segment, The satellite receives your
request from your dish and sends it to the gateway on the ground.
The Starlink satellite receives your request for www.google.com and sends it to the nearest gateway.
4. Gateway (Ground Segment): The gateway is the bridge between the satellite and the internet. It processes and manages the data.
The gateway receives your request from the satellite and sends it to the internet.
The gateway receives your request for www.google.com from the satellite, processes it, and sends it to the internet&The internet sends the
data for www.google.com back to the gateway
5. Gateway (Ground Segment): The gateway receives the data from the internet and sends it to the satellite.
The gateway sends the data for www.google.com to the Starlink satellite.
6. Starlink Satellite (Space Segment): The satellite relays the data from the gateway to your dish.
The Starlink satellite sends the data for www.google.com to your Starlink dish, & Your Starlink dish sends the data for www.google.com to
your laptop, and the website loads in your browser.
7. Network Operations Center (NOC):The NOC tracks the performance of the satellites, gateways, and user connections.If there’s a problem
(like a gateway failure), the NOC reroutes traffic to keep you connected.
If the gateway handling your request goes offline, the NOC reroutes your traffic through another gateway.
8. Telemetry, Tracking, and Command (TT&C) Stations : TT&C stations receive telemetry data from the satellites (power levels, temperature,
position).If a satellite starts drifting or has a technical issue, the TT&C station sends commands to fix it.
If a Starlink satellite’s battery is running low, the TT&C station sends a command to adjust its solar panels for better power generation.
 3. USER SEGMENT
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The User Segment is all about the devices that people use to connect to the satellite network. These devices allow users to access the
internet, make calls, or send data through the satellite network even in places where traditional ground-based networks don’t reach.

User Equipment (UE)

Everyday devices like smartphones, tablets, or laptops that connect to the satellite network.
These devices communicate directly with the satellite (or through a base station, depending on the setup) to access the internet or make
calls. Examples:
Smartphones with Satellite Connectivity: Companies like Starlink and T-Mobile are working to enable direct satellite connectivity
for regular smartphones. For example, you could use your 5G phone to send a text or make a call via a satellite in remote areas.
Satellite Phones: Devices like the Iridium satellite phone connect directly to satellites, providing global coverage even in polar
regions or the middle of the ocean.
Tablets and Laptops with Satellite Modems: Devices like Inmarsat’s IsatHub allow tablets and laptops to connect to satellites for
internet access in remote locations.

VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal)

A VSAT is a larger, more powerful antenna used to connect to satellites. It’s often used in remote areas where traditional networks aren’t
available.
The VSAT terminal communicates directly with the satellite to provide internet, phone, or data services. It’s typically stationary and
mounted on a building, vehicle, or ship. Examples:
Starlink Dish: The Starlink dish is a type of VSAT terminal that connects to Starlink’s satellites to provide high-speed internet in
rural or remote areas.
Maritime VSAT Systems: Ships and boats use VSAT terminals (like those from KVH) to stay connected to the internet while at sea.
Emergency VSAT Kits: Organizations like the Red Cross use portable VSAT kits to set up temporary communication networks in
disaster zones.
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NTN DATA FLOWS

1- Direct Satellite-to-Device Communication:

Used in 5G NTN setups where the satellite can handle direct

communication with user devices.

Common for individual users or small groups in remote areas.

2-Base Station as Local Hub:

Used in areas where the satellite signal needs to be distributed

to multiple users (a remote village).

Also used in hybrid networks where direct satellite-to-device

communication is not feasible.
 Eng. Al Ali Khalaf

DEFINE SOME KEY TERMS

Let's review some of the important terms you'll hear
when talking about NTN.
Each part of the term has a unique function that must
be performed to make NTN work.

Satellite (SAN - Satellite Access Node)

A Satellite Access Node is any airborne or spaceborne station that provides NTN radio access. SANs can take several forms, including:
Satellites: Operating in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), or Geostationary Orbit (GEO)
High Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS): Airships, balloons, or solar-powered aircraft operating in the stratosphere.
Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS): Drones or similar aerial platforms.
The SAN acts as the central element of NTN, enabling communication between the ground network and user devices.
It achieves this through different types of payloads: Transparent Payloads and Regenerative Payloads

A transparent payload is the simpler type of payload within a SAN. It functions as A regenerative payload is more advanced and capable of onboard signal
a relay station, performing no onboard processing of the signals. Instead, it: processing. It:
Receives signals from a ground station via the feeder link. Receives signals from the ground station via the feeder link.
Amplifies the signals without modifying or decoding them. Decodes and processes the signals, performing tasks like error correction
Re-transmits the signals to user equipment via the service link. and data routing.
This type of payload is ideal for basic communication services, such as: Re-encodes and retransmits the signals to user equipment via the service
1. Broadcast Services: Satellite TV and emergency alert systems. link.
2. Data Relay: Providing connectivity for large areas with minimal infrastructure. This advanced functionality allows regenerative payloads to:
Improve signal quality and reduce latency.
Transparent payloads are efficient for straightforward applications where signal Enable complex communication services, especially in:
processing is not required onboard the satellite. a. 5G NTN: Supporting high-speed, reliable connections.
b. Mobile Satellite Services (MSS): Enhancing mobile communication in
remote areas.
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Service Link
The Service Link is the wireless connection between the satellite and
your device (like your phone, tablet, or satellite dish).
It’s how you get internet, make calls, or send data using the satellite.
Starlink provides internet access via satellite, The satellite sends
internet data to your Starlink dish through the Service Link, Your dish
connects to your router, giving you Wi-Fi at home.
n 5G NTN, the Service Link uses the Uu interface, the standard way 5G
devices connect to the network. However, since satellite communication Service Link
Feeder Link
involves longer signal delays and unique characteristics, specific
adjustments to the 5G protocol stack are required to handle these
challenges effectively.

Satellite radio interface (SRI) or feeder link

The Feeder Link, also known as the Satellite Radio Interface (SRI), is the
connection between the satellite and a ground station equipped with a
large antenna. This link enables the satellite to communicate with the
internet or terrestrial mobile networks.
So its function acts as the bridge between the satellite in space and the
ground station on Earth.
Frequency Usage: It may use the same or different frequency bands as
the Service Link.
Future Innovations: Advanced technologies like millimeter-wave
(mmWave) frequencies or laser-based optical communication are
being explored for faster and more efficient data transfer.
gNB (Next-Generation NodeB) : is the 5G base station.
1-It connects UE to the 5G network via the radio interface (Uu)
2-It handles both user data and control signals
3-It connects to the 5G Core Network (5GC) via the NG interface.
The most important things about it :
1-Provides the Uu interface to the UE.
2-Processes data (encoding/decoding, error correction, etc.)
The gNB is a logical concept and can be implemented in different ways
(onboard a satellite or on the ground). However, when implemented
onboard a satellite, it requires significant modifications to handle the
unique challenges of satellite communication, such as latency, Doppler
effects, and signal attenuation

NTN gNB (Non-Terrestrial Network gNB) : The NTN gNB is a specialized version of the gNB designed for NTN
environments. It connects user devices to the 5G network via satellites or airborne platforms.
Deployment Options:
1-Regenerative Payload
2-Transparent Payload

The term NTN gNB is used to highlight that the gNB is part of a Non-Terrestrial Network.

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sNB (Satellite NodeB)

The sNB is a specialized version of the gNB. While the gNB serves as the standard 5G base station, the sNB is specifically optimized for satellite
communication in ‘’NTN’’. It addresses the unique challenges of operating in space or via satellites.
The sNB is designed to efficiently manage:
1. User Data (internet traffic, video streaming)
2. Control Signals (maintaining connections, handovers)
The most important aspects of sNB:
1. Gateway Functionality,The sNB includes a gateway to connect to the satellite. This gateway acts as a bridge between:
The user devices on the ground (via the Service Link)
The core network (via the Feeder Link or Satellite Radio Interface - SRI)
This is crucial because, in NTN, satellites often operate at significant distances, requiring efficient data routing and coordination.
2. Split Architecture: Distributed Unit (DU) and Centralized Unit (CU), The sNB divides its functions into two logical components to enhance flexibility
and efficiency:
1. Distributed Unit (DU):
Handles time-sensitive tasks close to the user.
Examples: Processing radio signals, managing user equipment (UE) connections, and performing tasks like modulation and error correction.
Location: Can be implemented onboard the satellite for real-time processing.
2. Centralized Unit (CU):
Manages less time-sensitive tasks, like routing user data and controlling network operations.
Examples: Connecting to the core network, scheduling resources, and managing handovers.
Location: Typically implemented on the ground but can also be split between space and ground.
3. Flexible Deployment Options, The sNB can be deployed in two main ways:
1. Fully Onboard the Satellite:
Both DU and CU are integrated into the satellite.
This reduces reliance on ground infrastructure, making it ideal for remote or oceanic areas.
2. Split Between Space and Ground:
The DU is onboard the satellite, while the CU is on the ground.
This configuration optimizes processing efficiency by offloading less critical tasks to Earth-based infrastructure.
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Eng. Al Ali Khalaf

GNB, NTN GNB, AND SNB

1. gNB (Next-Generation NodeB) 2. NTN gNB (Non-Terrestrial Network gNB) 3. sNB (Satellite NodeB)
The gNB is the regular 5G base station The NTN gNB is a modified version of the gNB The sNB is essentially the same as an NTN
used on the ground in cities and towns. designed for use in Non-Terrestrial Networks gNB but is specifically optimized for
It connects devices to the 5G network. (satellites, drones, or high-altitude satellites. It emphasizes satellite-specific
platforms). It allows 5G to work in areas functions, such as splitting its tasks
It processes your data (internet or without ground-based towers. between space and ground components.
calls) and communicates directly
with the 5G Core Network. Depending on the setup, the NTN gNB can The sNB can split its functions into:
Everything happens on Earth. operate in two ways: DU (Distributed Unit)
a. Transparent Payload CU (Centralized Unit)
Key Points: b. Regenerative Payload
Always ground-based. Key Points:
Handles standard 5G Key Points: A satellite-specific version of gNB.
communication. Designed for satellite or airborne Focuses on managing 5G
Used in urban, suburban, and platforms. connections via satellites
rural terrestrial networks. Works where ground-based efficiently.
infrastructure doesn’t exist (oceans, Optimized to handle unique
remote deserts). challenges like satellite movement
Adapts to space challenges like latency and Doppler effects.
and signal delays.
Eng. Al Ali Khalaf

PRIMARY SERVICES
AND USE CASES
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Primary Services
and Use Cases
NTN ensures that no one is left offline. By leveraging
satellites, and other airborne systems, NTN supports a
wide range of services and use cases to meet your
different needs.
In this section, we will explore the core satellite service
categories and specific use cases for NTN, highlighting
their importance and real-world applications.
 Primary Satellite
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02
Broadcast Satellite Services (BSS)
BSS is a way of sending information from a satellite to many devices at once over a
large area. This makes it extremely useful for tasks that require the same data to
Service Categories
reach a wide audience, such as broadcasting TV, emergency alerts, or software
updates.
Satellite services are grouped into three main categories:
A satellite transmits information in a way that it can be received by multiple
FSS, BSS, and MSS. Each category has unique applications
devices (e.g., TVs, phones, or cars) simultaneously, Unlike one-on-one that play a crucial role in extending connectivity.
communication (like your phone calling another phone), BSS is one-to-many,
meaning one satellite sends the same data to many users at once. Fixed Satellite Services (FSS)
This is like watching live TV—millions of viewers can receive the same broadcast 01 FSS use satellites to provide internet connectivity to fixed or
from a satellite at the same time. stationary equipment, like VSATs (Very Small Aperture
Examples Terminals). These are small satellite dishes installed in homes,
1. Disaster Alerts: In emergencies like tsunamis, BSS can broadcast warnings to businesses, or remote facilities that connect to the internet via a
entire regions. satellite.
2. Car Software Updates: Companies like Tesla use satellites to send software Examples
updates to cars worldwide. Starlink uses low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites to provide high-
What Makes BSS Important? speed internet to remote areas, such as rural communities in
1-Efficiency: Instead of sending the same data to each device individually, BSS Alaska, where terrestrial infrastructure isn’t feasible.
delivers it to everyone at once. What makes FSS special: It bridges the digital divide by bringing
2-Large-Scale Coverage: Satellites can cover huge areas internet access to areas where laying cables or building cell
3-Critical Applications: it’s perfect for public safety (disaster alerts) towers is impractical, too expensive, or technically impossible.
Bridges the Digital Divide:FSS ensures that people in remote
Perfect for 5G NTN, With the integration of BSS into 5G NTN, its potential expands. areas can access essential online services like education,
For example: Governments can use BSS to broadcast important announcements healthcare, and e-commerce.
across large regions. For example, children in rural areas can attend online classes,
also Telecom operators can offload data-heavy tasks (like video streaming or and healthcare providers can offer telemedicine services to
content delivery) to satellites, reducing pressure on terrestrial networks. isolated patients.
 Primary Satellite
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Mobile Satellite Services (MSS)

Service Categories
MSS uses satellites to provide basic mobile services like voice calls,
messaging, and low-speed internetn in places where traditional
cellular networks (like 4G or 5G) don’t exist. These areas could
include:
03 The middle of the ocean. Important things to think about for MSS
Remote deserts or mountain ranges.
Areas hit by natural disasters where terrestrial networks are 1-MSS is designed to provide connectivity in hard-to-reach
down. places, not to deliver high-speed internet. It’s more about
MSS relies on satellites to communicate directly with User Equipment ensuring communication is possible anywhere rather than
(like satellite phones or special handheld devices). competing with the faster speeds of terrestrial 5G.
Instead of connecting to a cell tower on the ground, your device
sends a signal to a satellite orbiting in space. The satellite then relays
2-For handheld devices (like satellite phones), MSS works best
the signal to another device or to a ground station connected to the
when the device has a clear line of sight to the satellite.
broader network.
Indoor use or heavily obstructed environments (forests,
tunnels) can reduce signal quality.
Examples:
1. Iridium Satellite Phones: These phones are specifically designed
for use in remote areas with no cellular coverage. MSS is crucial because it
Example Use Case: An explorer in Antarctica can use an Iridium
phone to call for help or stay in touch with a base camp. 1. Fills Gaps in Connectivity: MSS ensures communication in
2. Inmarsat for Aviation: Inmarsat’s satellite services provide internet remote areas where terrestrial networks don’t reach.
to airplanes, ensuring passengers can browse the internet or send 2. Supports Critical Applications: Emergency responders,
messages while flying over areas without ground-based networks. explorers, and industries like aviation and maritime rely
on MSS for safety and communication.
 Challenges and
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Challenges Today What’s Next for NTN

1- Lower Data Rates: Current NTN deployments
(using 20 MHz FR1 bandwidth) offer slower
speeds compared to terrestrial 5G.especially in
high-latency scenarios like GEO satellites.
2- Technical Constraints: Satellites face
challenges like signal loss (path attenuation),
long delays, and Doppler shifts caused by their
movement.

Future Improvements
1- Better Data Rates: Using higher frequencies
(FR2) and advanced antennas (like VSAT) will
allow NTNs to deliver faster speeds.
2- More Applications: NTNs will expand their
role in smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and
IoT, complementing terrestrial networks rather
than replacing them.
Eng. Al Ali Khalaf

Specific Use Cases of NTN

01
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Network Resilience and Emergency

Specific Use Cases
of NTN
Using satellites to provide backup communication during disasters or
network outages.
When ground networks fail (due to earthquakes, hurricanes, or other
disasters), satellites restore communication, providing critical connectivity These are modern applications of satellite services,
02 for emergency responders and affected communities especially in the context of 5G NTN. They describe how
Examples:
satellites are used to solve specific problems or meet
1-Disaster Recovery: After a hurricane, satellites provide internet
specific needs.
and phone services to affected areas.
2-Emergency Responders: Police, firefighters, and medical teams use Overlay and Traffic Offload
satellites for coordination. Using satellites to offload traffic from terrestrial
It saves lives by ensuring communication during emergencies. networks, reducing congestion.
During peak times or in crowded areas, some traffic is
Wide Area IoT (Internet of Things) routed through satellites instead of ground-based
Connecting IoT devices (like sensors) in remote areas via satellites. networks..
Satellites provide connectivity for IoT devices in areas without ground 01 Examples:
networks. 1-Event Connectivity: Satellites handle extra traffic
When ground networks fail (due to earthquakes or hurricanes), satellites during large events (concerts, sports games).
restore communication. 2-Urban Areas: Satellites offload traffic in cities to
03 Examples: improve network performance.
1-Smart Farming: Farmers use satellite-connected sensors to monitor It ensures reliable connectivity and reduces strain on
crops and soil. terrestrial networks.
2-Environmental Monitoring: Scientists use IoT devices to track
environmental changes in remote areas.
It extends IoT applications to remote and underserved regions.
 3GPP’s Vision for NTN Use Cases
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These are the high-level use cases that 3GPP is focusing on. They’re like the big-picture goals for how NTN can improve 5G networks.

3GPP’s Vision for NTN Use Cases

When we talk about NTN, it’s not just about providing internet to remote areas. The 3GPP (the
organization behind 5G standards) has a bigger vision for how NTN can work alongside
traditional ground-based networks to make 5G even better.
They’ve identified four high-level use cases and several detailed applications that show how NTN
can solve real-world problems. Let’s break it down in simple terms.

The Four Big Goals for NTN

These are the high-level use cases that 3GPP is focusing on. They’re like the big-picture goals for
how NTN can improve 5G networks.

1. Service Continuity: Stay Connected Everywhere

You shouldn’t lose your connection just because you move from a city (with lots of 5G towers)
3. Service Scalability: Handle More Traffic to a remote area (where only satellites can reach).
Satellites can help reduce congestion on ground networks by handling some The network seamlessly switches between ground-based 5G and satellite connections, so
of the traffic. you stay connected no matter where you are.
During big events (like concerts or sports games) or in crowded cities, satellites Example: If you’re on a ship sailing from the coast (where there’s 5G) to the open ocean (where
take over some of the data load to keep the network running smoothly. only satellites work), your phone stays connected the whole time.
Example: At a music festival, satellites help handle the extra traffic from 2. Service Ubiquity: Always-On Connectivity
thousands of people streaming videos and posting on social media. The network should always be available, even during disasters or when ground networks fail.
Satellites act as a backup, providing communication when earthquakes, hurricanes, or other
4. 5G System Backhaul: Connect Remote Areas
disasters knock out ground networks.
Satellites can help connect 5G towers in remote areas to the main network.
Example: After a hurricane, satellites can restore internet and phone services for emergency
Instead of using cables or microwave links, a 5G tower in a remote village connects
responders and affected communities.
to the core network via a satellite.
Example: A small town in the mountains gets 5G coverage because the local tower
uses a satellite for backhaul.
 More Detailed Applications of NTN
Eng. Al Ali Khalaf

In addition to the four big goals, 3GPP has identified specific ways NTN can be used to
solve real-world problems. These are more focused and practical applications.

1. Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB): Fast Internet Everywhere

Satellites can bring high-speed internet to areas where ground networks can’t reach.
Example: A farmer in a remote area gets high-speed internet to monitor crops and access
online resources.

2. Network Resilience: Keep the Network Running

Satellites ensure the network stays up, even during disasters or outages.
Example: After an earthquake, satellites restore communication for emergency teams and
affected communities.

3. Hybrid and Broadcast Connectivity: Offload Traffic

Satellites can handle broadcast or multicast services, reducing the load on ground
networks.
Example: A live sports event is broadcast to millions of viewers via satellite, freeing up
6. Aerial-Based Networks: Drones and Balloons
ground networks for other traffic
Drones or balloons can act as floating cell towers, providing internet in
hard-to-reach areas.
4. Wide-Area IoT: Connect Remote Devices
Example: A drone provides temporary internet to a disaster zone until
Satellites can connect IoT devices (like sensors) in areas without ground networks.
ground networks are restored.
Example: Scientists use satellite-connected sensors to monitor environmental changes in
the Arctic.
7. Temporary Connectivity: Quick Solutions
Satellites can provide temporary internet and communication in
5. Public Safety: Emergency Communication
specific situations.
Satellites provide fast and reliable communication for emergency responders.
Example: During a festival, satellites provide internet for
Example: Firefighters use satellites to coordinate rescue efforts during a wildfire.
attendees in a remote location.
 Eng. Al Ali Khalaf
Example
What made this project special was that it allowed
regular 5G devices ''like smartphones'' to connect
directly to the satellites. They used the same Uu
Integrating 5G with NTNs
interface that 5G phones use to connect to terrestrial
base stations. This meant no special hardware or
The integration of 5G with NTN isn’t just theoretical, it’s already
modifications were required for the user devices.
happening. One great example is the collaboration between Telesat
and the European Space Agency (ESA), where they successfully
Satellite networks naturally introduce some delay due demonstrated 5G connectivity through Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites.
to the long distances involved. To address this, Let’s break down how they made it work.
advanced protocols were implemented to minimize
latency and ensure smooth performance. Additionally,
Telesat used LEO satellites because they orbit closer to Earth,
error correction technologies were used to make sure
providing faster connections with lower latency compared to satellites
the data was transmitted reliably over the satellite link.
in higher orbits. This makes them ideal for supporting real-time 5G
services. The satellites operated in the Ka-band frequency, which offers
Testing and Application
high bandwidth for data-intensive applications like streaming and IoT.
After building the system, they tested it in scenarios:
Rural Connectivity: Providing high-speed internet to remote
areas without terrestrial towers. To connect these satellites to the 5G core network, special ground
Disaster Recovery: Restoring communication in areas hit by stations were equipped with "smart gateways" These gateways acted
natural disasters. as the bridge between the satellite signals and the terrestrial network,
Maritime Communications: Enabling ships to stay ensuring seamless communication.
connected far from land.

One practical use case was connecting farmers in remote areas. Using 5G smartphones and IoT sensors connected via LEO
satellites, farmers could monitor crops and manage resources efficiently, even in areas with no traditional cell coverage
 Alali Khalaf, RF Optimization & Planning Engineer
Eng. Al Ali Khalaf
📩 khalaf.thaier.777@gmail.com | 🔗 www.linkedin.com/in/alali-khalaf

Summary
This article provides an in-depth look at Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) and their role in enhancing 5G connectivity. NTN leverages
satellites, High Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS), and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) to provide internet and mobile services in areas
where traditional ground-based networks cannot reach, such as remote regions, oceans, and disaster zones.
The article explains how NTN works, breaking down the three main components: the Space Segment (satellites, HAPS, UAS), the
Ground Segment (antennas, gateways, base stations), and the User Segment (devices like phones and VSAT terminals). It also defines
key terms such as Service Link, Feeder Link, and gNB, and discusses the differences between transparent and regenerative payloads
in satellites.
The article highlights several core services and use cases for NTN, including Fixed Satellite Services (FSS), Mobile Satellite Services
(MSS), and Broadcast Satellite Services (BSS). It also explores modern applications like network resilience during emergencies, wide-
area IoT connectivity, and traffic offloading in crowded areas.
Finally, the article outlines 3GPP’s vision for NTN, focusing on service continuity, ubiquity, scalability, and 5G backhaul. It concludes
with detailed applications of NTN, such as enhanced mobile broadband, public safety communication, and temporary connectivity for
events or disaster zones.
In summary, NTN is a game-changer for 5G, offering solutions to connect the unconnected and ensuring reliable communication in
even the most challenging environments.