AccelerComm is now part of a new European Space Agency (ESA) funded programme that focuses on advancing regenerative 5G satellite architectures for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations.
The Southampton-based provider of high-performance physical layer solutions for 5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN), together with Antwerp Space, will explore how full 5G base station functionality can be used onboard satellites, moving beyond traditional “bent-pipe” architectures that simply relay signals between users and ground infrastructure. The initiative aims to deliver a regenerative 5G NTN “gNodeB” demonstrator operating at Technology Readiness Level 5 (TRL 5), capable of supporting multiple simultaneous users under realistic satellite channel conditions.
“Regenerative NTN represents one of the most important architectural transitions currently underway in satellite communications. Instead of satellites acting purely as transparent relays, the industry is moving towards networks that can process, manage and optimise connectivity directly in orbit. That creates major advantages in efficiency, flexibility, latency, and scalability, but it also introduces significant technical challenges at the physical layer. ESA’s support for this regenerative satellite demonstrator reflects the growing momentum behind intelligent, fully integrated, standards-based 5G NTN networks,” said David Helfgott, CEO of AccelerComm.
The demonstration will incorporate advanced features including dynamic user behaviour, beam hopping, and intelligent power allocation strategies designed to optimize transmission performance across LEO satellite networks. The project is also expected to align with some of the latest 3GPP NTN specifications, supporting the broader industry push toward interoperable satellite and terrestrial 5G infrastructure.
Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity
