Radisys recently announced a partnership with Ramon.Space, a specialist in space-resilient computing infrastructure, to develop cutting-edge intellectual property for 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) solutions. This collaboration represents an advancement in merging 3GPP-compliant 5G technologies with resilient space-based communication processors.
Central to the partnership is the integration of Radisys’ 5G NTN Radio Access Network (RAN) software, fully compliant with Release 17, onto Ramon.Space’s hardware. This combined solution will facilitate the deployment of optimised 5G NTN technologies, including the installation of a full 5G gNodeB (gNB) in space.
Deploying 5G gNB in space involves positioning sophisticated 5G RAN nodes on satellites orbiting the Earth. These gNBs enable high-speed, low-latency communication by connecting directly with ground-based, maritime, and airborne devices. By extending the coverage of terrestrial 5G networks, they offer seamless global connectivity, particularly benefiting remote and underserved regions.
Radisys’ Centralised Unit (CU) and Distributed Unit (DU) 5G gNB software, when integrated with Ramon.Space’s On Board Processors (OBPs), will allow flexible RAN split options between space platforms and ground stations. This will support efficient data transmission and robust connectivity for applications ranging from broadband internet and IoT to disaster recovery and remote industrial operations.
Key features of this integrated solution include:
- Advanced integration: The hardware and software combination will enable optimised space-based 5G NTN solutions, including the deployment of full 5G gNB nodes in orbit
- Innovative architecture: The system supports hosting both CU and DU on satellites, with flexible RAN split options between the space and ground platforms
- Cost efficiency: By leveraging space-resilient hardware and standardised 3GPP protocols, the collaboration aims to reduce the cost of space communications, enabling new applications
- Future-ready, scalable solutions: The partnership is focused on developing future space-based satellite products for a range of applications, such as IoT and broadband, and scaling the solution for higher capacity with increased operational efficiency
- Comprehensive offering: This joint venture will deliver a fully integrated hardware and software solution for space-based 5G missions
“Ramon.Space is committed to building space-resilient computing systems for satellite communications and we are pleased to partner with Radisys due to their technical excellence and maturity in the NTN cellular market,” said Eric Anden, Head of Communication Products, Ramon.Space. “Together, we are poised to revolutionise space-based 5G communications, bringing unprecedented capabilities to a wide range of applications while also enabling new, disruptive innovation into the market.”
“This collaboration represents a significant leap forward in the evolution of 5G NTN technologies, paving the way for innovative applications and enhanced connectivity in space,” said Munish Chhabra, Head of Mobility Software and Services Business, Radisys. “Using Ramon.Space’s hardware with disaggregated software that incorporates standardised 3GPP protocols is a key step in reducing the cost of space communications and opening new use cases. This partnership with Ramon.Space allows us to combine our strengths and deliver cutting-edge solutions that will transform the future of space-based connectivity.”
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