University of Surrey part of international satellite research project
The aim of the project is to address the digital divide across the world
Last updated 13th Dec 2021
The University of Surrey is part of a research project that will see satellite and terrestrial technology used to extend 5G coverage.
The INSTANT5G project will create, trial and validate technologies that will deliver a software platform that will virtualise resources and enable zero-touch management of 5G satellite connections.
It's hoped that the network will help address the operational challenges that mobile network operators and tower companies face.
As well as reducing the digital divide in regions like Africa, where inequalities are particularly prominent.
Avanti Communications, a leading provider of high throughput satellite capacity across EMEA, and the European Space Agency are managing the research project.
The European Space Agency, UK Space Agency and the Romanian Space Agency are endorsing the project.
Professor Barry Evans from the University of Surrey said: "The Institute for Communication Systems and 5 & 6G Innovation Centre at the University of Surrey is delighted to be collaborating with Avanti, Lasting and CGI on the integration of satellite and 5G mobile systems.
"The INSTANT5G project enables us to advance the state-of-the-art of 5G satellite backhaul that was set by the EU SaT5G project in which the University of Surrey had the Technical Management role.
"The goal of the project will be commercial and dynamic end-to-end managed 5G services that include satellite links in the path, through innovation and demonstration.
Our 3GPP compliant 5G Core Network, Management and Orchestration infrastructure and campus-wide Radio Access Network will be utilised in the project to test the end-to-end system, including satellite backhauling via Avanti and links to the ESA ECSAT hub."
Kyle Whitehill, Chief Executive Officer at Avanti, commented: "We are delighted to be able to take a leading role in shaping the services of 5G over satellite on this ground-breaking research programme and proud to be working alongside renowned global partners and academic experts.
At Avanti, we believe everyone has the power to 'Be More' and by helping to break down the barriers preventing MNOs and Towercos from accessing 5G coverage, we will unlock opportunities that will enable these businesses to thrive - it is a really exciting time for the Satcom industry!"