en.Wedoany.com Reported - nxgsat, in collaboration with the University of Málaga (Universidad de Málaga, UMA), has successfully completed over-the-air testing of its 5G NR Software-Defined Radio User Equipment (SDR UE) on a real transparent GEO satellite payload. This test achieved end-to-end validation of a commercial, standards-compliant 5G NTN modem in a real satellite environment, marking a significant milestone in the field.
The test was conducted in partnership with the Mobile Networks and Software Reliability Research Group (MORSE) at the ITIS Software Institute of the University of Málaga. Assistant Professor Delia Rico led the collaboration on behalf of the team and provided the gateway infrastructure in Málaga. The two parties validated a complete end-to-end 5G NTN link in a real satellite environment, demonstrating that 3GPP-compliant NTN connectivity can be achieved using existing satellite assets.
The test utilized the transparent Ku-band payload of the Hispasat 30W-6C satellite. The activity validated the performance of the nxgsat 5G NR SDR UE under real satellite channel conditions, confirming its ability to connect, authenticate, and transmit real-time traffic within a 3GPP NTN architecture. Key validation results include: achieving a complete end-to-end connection between User Equipment (UE) and gNB over a live GEO satellite link; successfully booting the nxgsat 5G NR SDR UE in a 3GPP NTN Release 18-compliant configuration, covering initial login, end-to-end traffic transmission, SIB19 processing, and characterization of the satellite channel's impact on the operational link; and completing a suite of functional and performance tests, including HD video, voice calls, and high-throughput uplink and downlink data transmission.
José Laffitte, Chief Operating Officer of nxgsat, stated that the test confirms their productized 5G NTN software-defined UE modem operates reliably on transparent satellite payloads and can transmit end-to-end traffic, representing a critical validation of the service readiness of 5G NR NTN technology. Pedro Merino, Professor and Director of the ITIS Software Institute at the University of Málaga and Technical Director of 6G-SANDBOX, noted that the collaboration with nxgsat applied the team's research expertise to a real 5G NTN deployment scenario, and the results further demonstrate the feasibility of standards-based 5G connectivity over existing satellite assets. This validation of 5G NTN on a live GEO satellite directly showcases the capabilities of the University of Málaga's experimental infrastructure.
The test results hold significant value for multiple user groups. For satellite operators, the test confirms that 5G NTN services can be delivered using existing Ku-band transparent payloads without the need for new space infrastructure. For telecommunications and mobile network operators, it validates a standards-based path to extending 5G coverage globally via satellite. For government and defense customers, it demonstrates resilient, interoperable connectivity across orbital and network types. This successful test indicates that nxgsat's 5G NTN software UE modem is commercially ready to support customer deployments of satellite communications across networks and orbits. The University of Málaga and nxgsat have already showcased this technology live at the EuCNC & 6G Summit 2026 in Málaga, Spain.
This article is compiled by Wedoany. All AI citations must indicate the source as "Wedoany". If there is any infringement or other issues, please notify us promptly, and we will modify or delete it accordingly. Email: news@wedoany.com
