EU to Support Satellite 6G Project

The European Space Agency (ESA) and an EU-funded organization, Services Joint Undertaking (SNS JU), agreed to push advanced wireless technology. They will collaborate on work towards the integration of terrestrial and satellite infrastructure for 6G.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aims to bring together stakeholders from the mobile and satellite sectors to help shape the next-generation networks. Among the joint activities planned are large-scale trials of 6G terrestrial and non-terrestrial connectivity for industries including utilities, agriculture, and media, as well as consumer mobile services.

Tests will be shaped to generate data and performance benchmarks with the ultimate aim of improving interoperability between the infrastructure types. The pair also plans to pool expertise to develop 6G use cases in areas including edge computing.

In its statement on the pact, SNS JU noted its project teams would gain access to ESA ground and in-orbit laboratories, and demonstration satellites. It added that the pair aims to accelerate innovation and ensure Europe remains a robust, leading force in shaping the future of ubiquitous connectivity.

ESA director of connectivity and secure communications, Laurent Jaffart, explained that the organization’s ambition is to ensure that everyone is connected, everywhere, and at all times. He added that the fusion between networks in space and on the ground is a key ingredient to truly serve the connectivity needs of our member states. SNS JU executive director Erzsebet Fitori said the collaboration with the ESA is an important step in the goal to provide European tech sovereignty in 6G.