SKY Perfect JSAT has constructed the Universal NTN Innovation Lab, a technical verification environment for non-terrestrial networks (NTN), within the Yokohama Satellite Control Center (YSCC). Universal NTN is an innovative non-terrestrial network that aims to seamlessly and automatically connect to the optimal communication route anytime, anywhere, without the user even realizing it, by integrating non-terrestrial communication infrastructure such as geostationary orbit (GEO) satellites, non-geostationary orbit (non-GEO) satellites, and high altitude platform (HAPS).

The lab will be operated as a base for Universal NTN technical testing, focusing on 5G NTN technology. 5G NTN is seen as a next-generation communication technology that can easily link terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks and strengthen communication infrastructure in any place or space around the world.
The lab is scheduled to expand in stages, and will initially use SKY Perfect JSAT’s satellites and facilities to verify basic 5G NTN technologies with the cooperation of partner companies, and will proceed to enhance and advance the facilities.
After that, the plan is to open the lab up to the second half of next fiscal year so that a variety of companies and organizations can jointly conduct demonstration tests and technology development for future use cases.
Initial tests at the lab are planned to use the Ku band, which is being standardized in 3GPP Release 19, and 5G NTN technology.
Through these tests, the aim is to provide a highly reliable communications environment via satellite communications and establish technology that enables seamless collaboration between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks.

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