The GSMA and European Space Agency (ESA) have signed a Memorandum of Intent (MOI) to collaborate on developing satellite and terrestrial networks technologies
The ambition of the partnership is to further strengthen the competitiveness of both mobile and satellite network industries, by creating an ecosystem which can fast-track the development of new complimentary technology solutions for businesses and consumers. The two organisations will join efforts to speed-up innovation when it comes to integrating satellite communications with 5G and future 6G networks.
Key to this collaboration will be the GSMA Foundry innovation accelerator which brings together the mobile network operator community, and the wider technology industry, to accelerate cross-industry collaboration and advancements in mobile communication. As the ‘Home of Mobile Innovation,’ GSMA Foundry helps members forge the digital future by rapidly developing real-world solutions to industry challenges, nurture innovative ideas through initial commercial trials, and scale proven solutions at a regional and global level.
GSMA Foundry will work closely with ESA’s 5G/6G Hub, based at ESA’s European Centre for Space Applications and Telecommunications (ECSAT) based in Harwell, Oxfordshire. The ESA Hub brings together the satellite industry to work on new collaborative and innovative programmes.
As part of the MOI, the GSMA and ESA aim to collaborate and share knowledge, ideas, and outcomes of trials, which can help better integrate 5G and future 6G communications with non-terrestrial networks. This will be done through joint GSMA Foundry and ESA technology challenges supporting terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, as well as through joint events and promotions at conferences, such as Mobile World Congress.
To bring added support to the partnership, GSMA Intelligence (GSMAi) will add research and insights on key focus topics.
Recent research findings by GSMAi showed that the increased adoption and integration of satellite technologies by the communications industry could lead to potential revenue gains of US$35bn by 2035 (a 3% uplift on telecommunications industry revenues).
