Airbus UpNext Validates 5G NTN Use Cases for SpaceRAN
Airbus UpNext has worked with Keysight to produce a new case study validating key 5G non-terrestrial network use cases for its SpaceRAN demonstrator, supporting the development of future satellite-based 5G connectivity.
First announced in January 2026,tThe ground-based phase of the project uses Keysight satellite channel emulation, user equipment emulation and supporting software to test scenarios including beam handover, gateway handover and mobility management between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks.
SpaceRAN is Airbus UpNext’s Space Radio Access Network demonstrator, designed to explore standardized 5G NTN capabilities using software-defined satellite technology. The programme includes a ground demonstration simulating a two-satellite low Earth orbit constellation, followed by an in-orbit demonstration using a 5G NTN payload on an Airbus LEO satellite.
The technical challenge goes beyond extending coverage from space. Future 5G NTN systems will need to support seamless movement between terrestrial and satellite networks, while maintaining connectivity as satellites, beams, terminals and gateways change dynamically.
Keysight’s PROPSIM satellite channel emulation was used to reproduce real-world radio conditions in the lab, including Doppler effects, handovers, beamforming, multipath fading and high-speed mobility. Its UeSIM user equipment emulation also enabled Airbus UpNext to simulate traffic and application behaviour across large numbers of devices.
The work supports Airbus UpNext’s wider goal of developing standardized, interoperable and sovereign 5G NTN capabilities for commercial, defence and government applications. The SpaceRAN demonstrator is intended to process and optimize 5G signals in orbit, rather than simply relaying traffic, helping reduce latency and improve network management.
The in-orbit phase of SpaceRAN is scheduled to launch in 2027, with testing planned for 2028. The project is expected to contribute to future broadband, direct-to-handheld 5G services and longer-term 6G readiness.