Vision

The 6G-NTN project envisions a Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) component fully integrated into the future 6G infrastructure. Compared to the current 5G NTN, this will better meet the vertical industry’s needs and consumer market expectations. 


6G-NTN Architecture

Innovation potential

  • Disruptive performance with respect to the 5G-NTNSpectrum coexistence of NTN and TN 
  • 3D TN / NTN network architecture
  • Seamless and transparent service continuity
  • Reliable positioning (GNSS independent)
  • Flexible software defined payload
  • VNF orchestration, AI-Enhanced RIC
  • Fast adaptation to traffic variations
  • TN / NTN Edge computing
  • Compact terminals
  • Light indoors and in-vehicle
  • Throughput enhancement

In order to accomplish this ambition, 6G-NTN will research and develop a revolutionary three-dimensional (3D) network infrastructure concept for 6G with the ambition to provide, through unification with the TN component, a ubiquitous coverage with high data rate communication at quasi ultra-low latency while providing a disruptive concept of high accuracy and reliable location service. Eventually, the project will define a roadmap for the development of the necessary technical, regulatory and standardisation building blocks to enable integrated NTN service provisioning and disruptive market offer in the 2030-35 timeframe.

This will foster Europe’s technological leadership in the NTN sector and empower vertical domains well beyond the current 5G capabilities.

From 5G to 6G Non-Terrestrial Networks

From 5G to 6G Non-Terrestrial Networks

Objectives

OBJ 1

Identify the target service and operational requirements for 6G NTN component

OBJ 2

Design/sizing of a 3D NTN to meet the target user requirements

OBJ 3

Design trade-off and assessment of compact terminals targeted by the 3D NTN component

OBJ 4

Design flexible software defined payload across flying platforms and frequency bands

OBJ 5

Design key characteristics/features of a flexible waveform for 6G’s integrated radio access network

OBJ 6

Design and development of dynamic orchestration of Virtual Network Functions in a 3D network for 6G

OBJ 7

Design a reliable and accurate positioning function for 6G systems with a precision
below 10 cm

OBJ 8

Design enabling features for spectrum usage optimisation between the different network nodes

OBJ 9

Maximise the impact of 6G-NTN and strengthening Europe’s industrial leadership in the sector

OBJ 1

Identify the target service and operational requirements for 6G NTN component

OBJ 2

Design/sizing of a 3D NTN to meet the target user requirements

OBJ 3

Design trade-off and assessment of compact terminals targeted by the 3D NTN component

OBJ 4

Design flexible software defined payload across flying platforms and frequency bands

OBJ 5

Design key characteristics/features of a flexible waveform for 6G’s integrated radio access network

OBJ 6

Design and development of dynamic orchestration of Virtual Network Functions in a 3D network for 6G

OBJ 7

Design a reliable and accurate positioning function for the 6G system with a precision below 10 cm

OBJ 8

Design enabling features for spectrum usage optimisation between the different network nodes

OBJ 9

Maximise the impact of 6G-NTN and strengthening Europe’s industrial leadership in the sector