1

5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

2

Contents
Contents

Executive Summary..............................................................................................3

1. Overview............................................................................................................4

2. Industry Overview for Non-terrestrial Networks.............................................5

2.1 Standards Evolution..............................................................................5

3. Use Cases Evaluation with Non-Terrestrial Networks....................................8

4. 5G & Non-Terrestrial Architecture...................................................................12

4.1 NTN overview........................................................................................12

4.2 Satellite-based NTN Architectures.......................................................14

4.3 Interworking between TN and NTN......................................................17

4.4 RAN impact...........................................................................................18

4.5 Core network impact............................................................................18

4.6 Security in NTN.....................................................................................19

4.7 End-to-End Quality of Service Aspects................................................20

4.8 Positioning in NTN.................................................................................20

4.9 NB IoT/eMTC support in NTN ............................................................20

5. Deployment Options with Non-Terrestrial Networks Over Satellites............21

5.1 LEO/MEO/GEO tradeoffs......................................................................21

5.2 3GPP spectrum frequencies used in satellite NTN.............................22

5.3 Co-existence with terrestrial networks.................................................23

5.4 Roaming and RAN sharing...................................................................24

5.5 UE eco-system and availability.............................................................24

5.6 County specific PLMN selection...........................................................24

6. Network Service Continuity.............................................................................26

6.1 Initial Cell Selection ............................................................................27

6.2 Mobility in Idle Mode............................................................................27

6.3 Mobility Management in Connected Mode.........................................28

Conclusion ............................................................................................................32

Acronyms...............................................................................................................33

Acknowledgments.................................................................................................34

Endnotes................................................................................................................35
3 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

Executive Summary

The evolution and large-scale deployment of fifth generation “5G” wireless

networks over the next few years will require complementary 5G services
by offering ubiquitous and reliable coverage across numerous geographies.
Terrestrial networks are currently focusing on delivery of 5G services to
areas already being served by existing cellular technologies, but the unique
capabilities of non-terrestrial networks can help expand the reach of 5G
technology in the realization of new use cases.

The satellite communications industry is picking up pace with new constellations

of satellite deployments available today that are offering services to consumers,
in addition to ongoing research into making these deployments serve larger
footprints, providing more reliable service and becoming more cost-effective
as more satellite are deployed. Currently, there is increasing interest and
participation in industry forums from the satellite communication industry,
with companies and organizations convinced of the market potential for an
integrated satellite and terrestrial network infrastructure in the context of 5G
communications.

This white paper focuses on various aspects of 5G satellite-based

communications. From architecture (Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO)/Medium
Earth Orbit (MEO)/ Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations of satellites), to
deployment options in partnership with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), as
well as possible co-existence with terrestrial networks involving spectrum usage
and the complexities involved in the deployment of a 5G satellite-based network.
The paper also looks at potential use cases complementing terrestrial networks
offering broadband coverage and coverage to rural areas where terrestrial
networks have limited coverage.
4 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

1. Overview

Throughout 2021, 5G deployments have been steadily ramping up across the

globe with dozens of terrestrial network operators. While initially, 5G services
have been offered to consumers with smart phones, there is also a significant
desire by network operators to offer 5G services to enterprise and massive IoT
(internet of Things) and MTC (machine type communication) devices. Demand
for service continuity is expected to further drive the network evolution and
expansion into non-traditional areas. Non-Terrestrial Networks, or NTN, have
been part of gradual shift of research focus and the industrial push towards
5G-Advanced leading into sixth generation (6G) systems.

Satellite-based communication can potentially play an important role in

leveraging communication infrastructure to deliver 5G services in the future
and bridge the digital divide. Generally, satellite-based architecture leverages
Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), and Low Earth Orbit
(LEO) systems which can collectively provide coverage across altitudes ranging
from 36,000 km to 400 km. These satellites can be either stationary or can
orbit around the Earth in the form of constellations to provide services. Overall,
there are tradeoffs in performance and deployment cost among different
satellite systems (LEO, MEO, GEO) that need to be taken into consideration.

This white paper discusses the progress in NTN standardization at 3GPP

(3rd Generation Partnership Project), the consortium responsible for defining
technical specification for mobile communication systems. 3GPP also works on
various aspects of wireless networks, including use cases, network impact, QoS
(quality of services), security, interworking between NTN and terrestrial networks
(TN), as well as deployment challenges, complexities, and potential solutions.
5 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

2. Industry Overview for

Non-terrestrial Networks

Adapting 5G to support non-terrestrial networks requires holistic and

comprehensive design that spans across numerous areas, including radio
access networks (RAN) to services, as well as specific aspects in the core
network and on terminal devices.

2.1 Standards Evolution

3GPP is a primary international body responsible for defining the technical
specifications for mobile wireless networks. 3GPP was initially formed in
December 1998 when the European Telecommunications Standards Institute
(ETSI) partnered with other standard development organizations (SDOs) from
around the world to develop new technologies (or more specifically, technology
specifications) for the third generation (3G) of cellular networks. Each round of
technical specifications work culminates in a release.

After initial delivery in late 2017 of ‘Non-Stand-Alone’ (NSA) NR new radio

specifications for 5G, much effort focused in 2018 on timely completion of 3GPP
Release-15 – the first full set of 5G standards – and on work to pass the first
milestones for the 3GPP submission towards IMT-2020. 3GPP 5G standards
continue to advance as the organization works toward 3GPP Release 17 and 18
in future years.

2.1.1 NTN in 3GPP Standards

The work on Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) started in 3GPP in 2017, with a
Study Item in Release-15 in 3GPP RAN WG1 [RP-1714501]that focused on
deployment scenarios and channel models for NTN.

After this initial study, the 3GPP SA (Systems Aspects) workgroup started to
discuss the use cases for Satellite-based NTN as part of the Study Item on
Satellite Access in 5G [SP-170788]. The study identified three main categories
of use cases for satellite-based NTN:

• Service Continuity: Use cases where 5G services cannot be offered by

terrestrial networks alone, and how a combination of terrestrial and non-
terrestrial networks combined provides service continuity for such cases.
Some examples are airborne platforms (e.g., a commercial or a private jet)
and maritime platforms (e.g., a maritime vessel).
• Service Ubiquity: Use cases address unserved or under-served
geographical areas, where terrestrial networks may not be available.
Examples of ubiquity use cases are IoT (e.g., agriculture, asset tracking,
metering), public safety (i.e., emergency networks), and home access.
• Service Scalability: Use cases that leverage the large coverage area of
satellites and uses multicasting or broadcasting a similar content over
a large area. An example of such use case is the distribution of rich TV
content (i.e., Ultra High-Definition TV).
6 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

The work in Release-16 also included aspects such as the adjustment • Delay in satellite
a study in Radio Access Network of allowed values for timers • QoS with satellite access and
(RAN) working groups on solutions to take into consideration with satellite backhaul
for New Radio (NR) to support non- larger latency, improvements
• RAN mobility with Non-
terrestrial networks with the objective on Random Access Channel
geostationary (NGSO)
to determine the necessary features (RACH) access procedure,
regenerative-based satellite
to enable NR support for NTN [RP- and enhancement of uplink
access
1907102]. Key aspects are discussed scheduling. In the control
in this white paper in Chapters 4 plane, mobility procedures are • Regulatory services with super-
through 6. enhanced to better support national satellite ground station
satellite use cases. SA WG5 addressed management and
These studies provided a baseline for
• RAN WG3 is considering orchestration aspects in their study
NR functionalities needed to support
architectural enhancements [SP-1901389], with results captured in
LEO and GEO satellites. Using that as TR 28.80810.
a baseline, 3GPP is now concentrating such as feed link switch over, as
on the normative work for support of well as cell related aspects, such 3GPP Core and Terminals workgroups
LEO and GEO satellites using 5G. The as Automatic Neighbor Relation CT WG1, WG3, and WG4 created a
following assumptions, which will be (ANR), User Equipment (UE) study item [CP-20323511] to address
covered in further detail throughout registration and paging. aspects of 5GC (5G core network)
the remaining chapters of this • RAN WG4 is specifying UE Radio architecture for satellite networks.
white paper, are now being made in Resource Management (RRM) The work in CT working groups
standards: and RF requirements concentrates on aspects related to
In SA, WG1 is specifying the Stage 1 Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN)
• 5G-NR Frequency Division Duplex
requirements when considering the selection, and the results are captured
(FDD) is used.
use cases described in TR 22.8224. in Technical Report TR 24.82112. The
• Earth fixed Tracking area is study phase is completed and the
These requirements are being
assumed with Earth fixed and normative work will follow, with the
added directly to the existing SA1 5G
moving cells. Stage 2 solutions and requirements
specification, TS 22.2615: Service
• UEs with Global Navigation Requirements for the 5G System. for public land mobile network (PLMN)
Satellite Systems (GNSS) selection for satellite access.
capabilities are assumed. SA WG2, which encompasses the
system architecture, started their 3GPP also approved a study item for
• Transparent payload is assumed. enabling the operation of the Internet
satellite study in Release-17, with
In 3GPP RAN, the Work Item on the creation of the Study Item on of Things (IoT) NTN [RP-19323513].
Solutions for NR to Support Non- Architecture Aspects for Using Satellite This work is based on the existing
Terrestrial Networks (NTN) [RP- Access in 5G [SP-1812536]. The 3GPP features of Narrowband IoT
2117843] is specifying feature scope of this work was to identify key (NB-IoT) and enhanced Machine
enhancements such as: issues for satellite-based NTN in the Type Communication (eMTC), which
5G system architecture and provide were introduced in Release-13, over
• In RAN WG1 and WG2, feature
solutions for both direct satellite satellite communications. The study
enhancements to address
access and satellite backhaul. The assumes that the bands utilized are
issues related to satellite’s
result of the work is captured in the in the sub-6 GHz frequency range,
long propagation delays, large
Release-17 Technical Report TR with both LEO or GEO satellite orbits,
Doppler effects, and moving
23.7377. In November of 2019, SA2 assuming a transparent payload. The
cells are being specified. These
approved the Release-17 normative following scenarios are considered:
involve enhancements on timing
relationships, Hybrid Automatic work associated with this TR [SP- • Scenario A: GEO based
Repeat Request (HARQ), and 1913358]. The aspects that are being
• Scenario B: LEO based, altitude
uplink synchronization. addressed by SA2 in the normative
of 600km and 1200km, with
work are as follows:
• Some protocol stack functionality steerable beams
is also being enhanced in • Mobility Management with large • Scenario C: LEO based, altitude
RAN WG2. In the user plane, coverage areas and with moving of 600km and 1200km, with
normative changes involve coverage areas fixed beams
7 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

• Scenario D: MEO based, altitude of 10000km, with fixed beams

In addition, standalone operation is prioritized, and the following assumptions
are made:

• UEs have Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) capability

• IoT features specified up to Release-16 are supported
• Narrow Band IoT (NB-IoT) single-carrier and multi-carrier operation are
supported
The results of the study are captured in TR 36.76314. The Technical Report
contains aspects related to RACH procedure, mobility, Radio Link Failure, HARQ
operation, time and frequency adjustments, and general aspects related to
timers.

The 3GPP Release-17 specifications are scheduled to be completed in the

second quarter of 2022. The ASN.1 freeze is scheduled for the third quarter of
2022.
8 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

3. Use Cases Evaluation with Non-Terrestrial Networks

Chapter 3 summarizes potential use cases and scenarios for satellite service for non-terrestrial networks. Those use
cases are identified in the following table below:

Table 3.1 NTN Use Cases Evaluation

9 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

Table 3.1 NTN Use Cases Evaluation (cont.)

10 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

Table 3.1 NTN Use Cases Evaluation (cont.)

11 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

Table 3.1 NTN Use Cases Evaluation (cont.)

12 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

4. 5G & Non-Terrestrial Architecture

Satellites could be complimentary to 5G and improve the value of 5G networks

by addressing coverage challenges and complex use-cases that ground-based
infrastructure alone cannot address. 5G standards make Non-Terrestrial
Networks (NTN) and satellite segments part of the ecosystem of the 5G
connectivity infrastructure. This whitepaper focuses on satellite networks as
support for 5G networks.

4.1 NTN overview

3GPP completed the standardization of the first global fifth generation (5G)
wireless technology in its Release-15 in mid-2018. The first evolution step of the
5G system was finalized in Release-16, and 3GPP is working on further evolution
of the 5G system in Release-17. Enabling 5G systems to support non-terrestrial
networks (NTNs) has been significant area under exploration in 3GPP. NTN has
also become an umbrella term for any network that may involve non-terrestrial
flying objects. The NTN family includes satellite communication networks, high
altitude platform systems (HAPS), and air-to-ground networks, as illustrated in
Figure 4.1.15

Figure 4.1 Different types of non-terrestrial networks16

According to 3GPP TR 38.82117, the two typical scenarios of a satellite-based

NTN providing access to user equipment are depicted below:
13 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

Figure 4.1-2 Satellite NTN typical scenario based on transparent payload (source: 3GPP TR 38.821-g00)

Figure 4.1-3 Satellite-based NTN typical scenario based on regenerative payload (source: 3GPP TR 38.821-g00)

As defined in 3GPP TR 38.82118, a satellite-based Non-Terrestrial Network

typically features the following elements:

• One or several satellite gateways that connect the Non-Terrestrial Network

to a public data network:

» A GEO satellite is fed by one or several sat-gateways which are deployed

across the satellite targeted coverage (e.g., regional, or even continental
coverage). We assume that UEs in a cell are served by only one satellite
gateway.
»
A Non-GEO satellite served successively by one or several sat-gateways
at a time. The system ensures service and feeder link continuity between
the successive serving sat-gateways with sufficient time duration to
proceed with mobility anchoring and hand-over
• A feeder link or radio link between a sat-gateway and the satellite
• A service link or radio link between the user equipment and the satellite.
14 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

• A satellite which may implement either a transparent or a regenerative (with on board processing) payload. The
satellite typically generate several beams over a given service area bounded by its field of view. The footprints of the
beams are typically of elliptical shape. The field of view of a satellite depends on the on-board antenna diagram and
minimum elevation angle.

» A transparent payload: Radio frequency filtering, frequency conversion and amplification only at the satellite.
Hence, the waveform signal repeated by the payload is unchanged.
»
A regenerative payload: Radio frequency filtering, frequency conversion and amplification as well as demodulation/
decoding, switch and/or routing, coding/modulation at the satellite. This is effectively equivalent to having all or
part of base station functions (e.g., gNodeB or “gNB”) on board the satellite.
• Inter-satellite links (ISL) are optional in case of a constellation of satellites. This will require regenerative payloads on
board the satellites. ISL may operate in RF frequency or optical bands.
• User Equipment are served by the satellite within the targeted service area.
The different types of satellites are listed here:

Table 4.1 Types of satellite-based NTN platforms

For more details on satellite-based NTN reference scenarios, see 3GPP 38.82119 section 4.2.

3GPP Release-16 included studies on both architecture options (transparent and regenerative payload). The workgroup
decided to work on standardization of the transparent payload option, and not to standardize the regenerative payload
option in Release-17 due to various technical reasons. Thus this white paper focuses on the transparent payload option.

This regenerative payload option is under consideration for standardization for Release-18 with three potential design
options: 1) full gNB on board 2) gNodeB Centralized Unit (gNB-CU) on the ground, gNodeB Distributed Unit (gNB-DU) on
board, which face challenges in handling the F1 interface, as defined in 3GPP between CU and DU) 3) gNB on the ground,
LLS (Low layer split), RU (Radio Unit) on satellite, which is faced with challenges in the Common Public Radio Interface
(CPRI) interface that is not standardized in 3GPP.

4.2 Satellite-based NTN Architectures

As mentioned earlier, although there were several types of network architecture studied in Release-16, only Transparent
mode has been chosen to be pursued in Release-17.
15 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

4.2.1 Transparent Satellite based architecture

According to the architecture outlined in 3GPP TR 38.82120, the satellite payload implements frequency conversion and a
radio frequency amplifier in both uplink and downlink direction. It corresponds to an analogue RF repeater.

“the electromagnetic wave that are transmitted from Earth surface are converted by a satellite receive antenna
into an electric signal which is channel filtered and amplified by low-noise amplifier (LNA). The signal is then
frequency converted. A high-power amplifier (HPA) delivers finally the signal to a transmitting antenna generating
a reconditioned electromagnetic wave towards the Earth surface where receive station are located”

Figure 4.2 Networking-RAN architecture with transparent satellite (source: 3GPP TR 38.821-g00)

Hence the satellite repeats the NR-Uu radio interface from the feeder link (between the satellite-based NTN gateway and
the satellite) to the service link (between the satellite and the UE) and vice versa. The Satellite Radio Interface (SRI) on
the feeder link is the NR-Uu. In other words, the satellite does not terminate NR-Uu. The satellite-based NTN Gateway (GW)
supports all necessary functions to forward the signal of NR-Uu interface.

Different transparent satellites may be connected to the same gNB on the ground. Note: While several gNBs may access
a single satellite payload, the description has been simplified to a unique gNB accessing the satellite payload, without loss
of generality.

3GPP has decided to implement transparent architecture as depicted below:

Figure 4.2-1 Satellite payload + feeder link + GW + Non-NTN infrastructure gNB (3GPP R4-2115640)21
16 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

Treat “payload + feeder link + gateway + gNB” as essentially everything between

Uu and Next Generation (NG) interface as a single entity, that may be called
a “satellite access node” instead of “gNB”. In this architecture, the interface
between Satellite and Gateway, between gateway and gNB are not defined and
may become proprietary.

NR-Uu timers may have to be extended to cope with the long delay of the feeder
link and service link. In the context of a LEO scenario with ISL, the delay to be
considered shall encompass at least the feeder link (SRI) and one or several
ISLs.

Both CP (control plane) and UP (user plane) protocols are terminated on the
ground.

• With respect to CP, this scenario does not pose any particular issue, but
there is a need to adapt to the much longer roundtrip times of the Uu that
can be addressed by implementation.
• Concerning UP, apart from issues arising from the longer roundtrip time for
UP packets, the UP protocol itself is unaffected. The longer delay on the Uu
interface will, however, require more buffering for the UP packets into the
gNB.

Satellite-based NTN will implement position-based and fixed tracking area (TA)
satellite access. It is also assumed that UEs have the capability to determine
their location.

According to 3GPP SA2 Study Report 23.73722, the following principles will be
applied in satellite-based NTN networks:

1. Fixed tracking area (TAs): As for terrestrial networks, tracking areas

are defined as a set of cells. TAs are fixed with respect the surface of
Earth. For non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellites, as time proceeds,
the mapping between gNB and satellite beams will change (e.g., for
transparent case due to the feeder link switch). For geostationary
satellites (GEO), satellite beams are fixed and generate a fixed radio
coverage pattern on Earth. Earth-fixed tracking areas can also be ensured
with moving beams/cells as described in TR 38.82123
2. Mobility: The UE makes radio cell selection based on similar procedures
as for terrestrial NG-RANs. Based on the selected radio cell, the UE
determines the Tracking Area on which it is located. The Access and
Mobility Management Function (AMF) determines Registration Area as per
the existing specification.
3. CN (Core network) Paging: The 5G Core Network (5GC) still pages
the UE in Connection Management Idle (CM-IDLE) within the allocated
Registration Area, i.e., a list of TAs.

For reference, figure 4.2-1 below is an illustration of a fixed tracking area and
mobility for NGEO satellite:
17 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

Figure 4.2-2 Non-Geostationary Satellite Beam steering and Handover (source: 3GPP SA2 study report 23.737)

4.2.2 Multi connectivity involving NTN

3GPP has studied the simultaneous Protocol Data Unit (PDU) Session multi-connectivity of a UE over terrestrial RAN and
satellite-based NG-RAN and decided not to include it in Release-17 specifications. However, it does not though preclude
a device with two UEs that may simultaneously have separate Registrations and PDU Sessions in satellite and terrestrial
networks with different PLMNs.

4.3 Interworking between TN and NTN

The 5G system is expected to support service continuity between 5G terrestrial access network and 5G satellite access
networks owned by the same operator or owned by two different operators having an agreement.

Figure 4.3 Typical example of NTN-TN interworking (source: 3GPP 38.82124)

18 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

In principle, NSA (Non standalone) operation between NTN and TN, such as
running one leg connection with NTN and another leg connection with TN,
is not precluded in standards, it can be potentially challenging. Running Xn
connections between an NTN gNB and a terrestrial gNB is itself very challenging
due to the many constraints like UP flow control and other factors.

NTN as currently considered does not support non-standalone (NSA): even

MR-DC (multi radio dual connectivity) and New Radio to New Radio Dual
Connectivity (NR-NR DC) would be problematic. Thus, currently the NSA based
aspects (such as Xn mobility between NTN gNBs and terrestrial gNBs, MR-DC,
secondary RAT data volume reporting, traces, etc.) are treated as low priority in
3GPP Release-17 activities. A number of Xn specifications are not expected to
need explicit updates for NTN, so such support is left for vendor implementation.

It is expected the next generation (NG) based mobility should work to transition
between NTN and TN. It is anticipated that NTN can interact with 5G, 4G or
even 3G terrestrial networks via legacy inter-RAT (radio access technology)
procedures. Detailed idle mode and connected mode procedures are currently
left for vendor implementation.

4.4 RAN impact

3GPP Release-17 aims to specify the enhancements identified for 5G New
Radio non-terrestrial network low-earth and geostationary earth orbiting
satellites, according to the following principles:

• Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) is assumed as the primary frequency

duplex mode for New Radio to Non-terrestrial Network (NR-NTN)
connections.
• Earth fixed tracking areas are assumed with Earth fixed and moving cells
RAN features in physical layers need to be enhanced to address long
propagation delays, large Doppler effects and moving cells in NTN. This
includes timing relationships, UL time and frequency synchronization and HARQ
procedures

Increased delays can also cause Channel Quality Indicator (CQI) reporting and
Modulation Coding Scheme (MCS) assignment delays as channel conditions like
rain fade on DL and UL can change. Therefore, the gNB needs to have robust
algorithms to maintain the throughput performance to compensate for higher
Block Error Rate (BLER) at the UE or gNB. The scheduler needs to compensate
MCS and resource block (RB) assignment for various signal to noise (SNR)
conditions.

In higher layers like the Media Access Control (MAC), Radio Link Control (RLC),
and Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP), idle mode and connected
mode related procedures and signaling including system information,
registration, paging, use of satellite ephemeris information, location information,
measurement configuration, RRM (Radio resource management), and hand over
procedures all need to be updated. These are part of ongoing Release-17 work
item activities to update normative work, such as update specifications.

4.5 Core network impact

The goal in 3GPP Release-17 is to re-use the existing 5G Core Network
functionality as much as possible for NTN. The transparent payload architecture
with position based and fixed TA access does not modify the definition of TAs
19 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

and RAs, so no impacts are identified on the core network’s (CN)’s procedures
or functional elements with regards to TA Update and RA updates.

However, to cope with longer delay introduced with satellite access, certain
timers in session management and mobility management need to allow much
longer values. These values will depend on “RAT type,” which will have a new
value in RAT types indicating the UE is accessing the Core network via satellite.
It is proposed that UE capable only of connectivity via NTN RAN use extended
timers defined to handle satellite delays. For UEs that can use both NTN RAT and
terrestrial RAT, it is proposed that the UE uses regular timers or extended timers
based on the RAT Type in use.

The table below is taken from 3GPP 23.73725 (table 6.10.1.3-1), summarizing
the timer impacted:

Table 4.2 Summary of timers impacted by satellite RTT and suggested timer value increase

(WCRTT: “Worst Case Round Trip Time”)

Additionally, there are also enhancements needed in Access and Mobility

management Function (AMF) that are related to UE positioning and registration.
This is described in 3GPP SA2 study report 23.737 section 6.13.3

The Core network for 5G satellite (NTN) communication is expected to reuse

the 5G NR terrestrial core network. Due to the unique nature of satellite
communication that can cover multiple countries, the system needs to be
able to support a mix of national roaming and RAN sharing and also have
the possibility to support scenarios where the satellite operator has its own
subscribers and where it does not.

4.6 Security in NTN

There is expected to be no impact to the existing 5G security requirements and
procedures, including no impact to confidentiality and integrity protection of user
or control plane traffic. There may be proprietary implementation of encryption
on the interfaces between Satellite gateway and gNB to prevent man-in-the-
middle attack.
20 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

4.7 End-to-End Quality of Service Aspects

Current plan in 3GPP is to avoid impacts to existing QoS framework and reuse it
as much as possible also for NTN. The assumption is that most features can be
re-used as-is. To cope with longer delays especially associated with GEO, 3GPP
has recently agreed to define one new 5QI for best-effort services over GEO,
with a PDB (packet delay budget) of 1100ms. For LEO however, the existing 5QIs
should be applicable.

Network Slicing can be handled using the existing terrestrial network framework.
There is expected to be no new elements added to 3GPP Network Slicing
standard. Operators may create new slice based on NTN characteristics
(coverage, speed, delay) and charge accordingly.

4.8 Positioning in NTN

According to 3GPP SA2 study report 23.737: the architecture framework
for location management function (LMF) selection for the location services
(LCS) procedures uses RAT Type as one of the input parameters and that LCS
framework can also be re-used if satellite access is distinguished based on new
RAT Type(s). The only method used for UE location today is provided by UE based
global navigation satellite system (GNSS) or A-GNSS.

4.9 NB IoT/eMTC support in NTN

IoT operation is critical in remote areas with low or no cellular connectivity for
many different industries, including, but not limited to:

• Transportation (maritime, road, rail, air) & logistics

• Solar, oil & gas harvesting
• Utilities
• Farming
• Environment monitoring
• Mining

Satellite networks can be used to complement to terrestrial network to provide

IoT services for low or no coverage area. 3GPP has started a work item in
Release-17 on NTN for NB IoT and eMTC. Its objective is to specify support
of NB-IoT and eMTC over NTN with GNSS capability in the UE taken as a
working assumption for both NB-IoT and eMTC devices. NB-IoT/eMTC design
for terrestrial networks will be reused as much as possible in this case. Note
that only EPC (Evolved Packet Core) connectivity is in scope in Release-17. For
instance, 5GC connectivity is not considered and maybe be considered as part
of Release-18 scope.
21 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

5. Deployment Options with Non-

Terrestrial Networks Over Satellites

There are several options for network deployments involving non-terrestrial

networks using a variety of different satellites. This chapter will look at some of
the tradeoffs, spectrum considerations, co-existence with terrestrial networks,
the user equipment eco-system, and connectivity with public land mobile
networks.

5.1 LEO/MEO/GEO tradeoffs

Current satellite-based NTN networks primarily consist of backhaul of cellular
services over GEO and MEO systems. These cellular services could be 3G/4G
or 5G to remote areas where other forms of backhaul are a difficult to deploy
whether it be terrain, remoteness or cost.

Traditionally with 3G/4G backhaul over the existing MEO/GEO satellites have
been challenging due to the larger latency associated with the distance of
satellites, as depicted below:

Figure 5.1 LEO, MEO and GEO satellite altitudes and latencies
22 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

These large latencies (125 – 800 ms) provide an inadequate user experience for
real-time applications such as voice, video and gaming. MEO and GEO satellites
require higher power on return link (RL/UL) thereby requiring robust end user
devices.

With Release-17 and direct connectivity planned to UEs, the user experience
should significantly improve when LEO satellites with lower latencies are
deployed with 5G, compared to with MEO/GEO based.

As Release-17 is limited to a transparent/bent-pipe type of architecture instead

of a regenerative payload, it will be crucial to determine which satellite system to
use. Typical LEO orbits at ~1000 Km should provide one-way latency in the 30 to
50ms range depending on gateway, datacenter (application) location. Assume a
co-located gateway and datacenter with minimal terrestrial L2/L3 backhaul with
latencies less than 50ms, even if the MEO/GEO system is using a co-located
gateway/datacenter, the latencies associated with physical distance constraints
can still degrade user experience for certain applications. On the other hand,
MEO/GEO have larger coverage and have lower deployment costs. Many of the
GEO satellites can be software upgraded for transparent payload.

Other issues to consider with LEO compared to MEO and GEO include an
increase of handoffs across satellites and possible beams depending on
number of beams from a satellite to UE. For a LEO satellite, inter-satellite
handoffs can be expected every 3 to 10 mins between 60 degrees latitude,
depending on number of satellites that are visible and power constraints.
Therefore, it is critical that the UE’s know the ephemeris of the satellites and
frequencies to use in a timely manner with precise time syncing. These are
technical challenges that can be solved as satellite trajectories are quite
predictable. Thus, there are tradeoffs between different satellite deployment
considerations and the choice depends on the use case being considered.

5.2 3GPP spectrum frequencies used in satellite NTN

For 3GPP, spectrum has been generally defined in two different frequency range
(FR) groups: FR1 - frequency range from 450Mhz to 6GHz, and FR2 – frequency
range from 24.25GHz to 52.6GHz. For FR1, 3GPP reached an agreement for the
following NTN bands:

• 1980-2010MHz / 2170-2200MHz is the “S-band”; In the International

Telecommunications Union (ITU), this band is identified for both satellite
and terrestrial component of the International Mobile Telecommunications
(IMT) frameworks
• Part of the L-band is allocated to Maximum Segment Size (MSS),
depending on GEO/non GEO composition

However, defining these bands in 3GPP does not mean such spectrum will be
used in commercial NTN networks. There are countries in different regions
that want to use these bands for terrestrial use, so it still requires coordination
between different countries and between countries and satellite operators to
allow use of these bands for certain NTN networks. Such coordination should be
done via the ITU.

For instance, there is a need to ensure that cross-border issues are solved
between those countries that choose the NTN and those that choose the TN for
spectrum in 3GPP frequency band 1 and band 65/n65. This frequency band
23 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

of 3GPP band 1 and 65 is defined in the ITU Recommendation M.1036-626.

“Frequency arrangements for implementation of the terrestrial component of
IMT in the bands identified for IMT in the Radio Regulations” as a combination of
B1 and B6, where the B6 may also be used by the satellite component of IMT in
some countries (both constitute n65 together while B1 equals 1/n1), as shown
in the diagram below:

Figure 5.2 3GPP-identified frequencies for use by satellites in NTN’s

Similarly, B7 defined in ITU with frequency range 2000-2020 Mhz (UL) and
2180-2200Mhz (DL) overlaps completely with Band 23 defined in 3GPP for ITU
Region 2 (America). Spectrum coordination would be needed if such band is
added to NR band list in 3GPP for terrestrial use and some satellite operators
want to use it for non terrestrial network in the future.

As noted in the M.1036-6: A unique situation exists for the frequency

arrangements B6 and B7 and parts of arrangements B3 and B5 in the bands
1 980-2 010 MHz and 2 170-2 200 MHz, which have been identified for
the terrestrial component of IMT and the satellite component of IMT. .Co-
coverage and co-frequency deployment of independent satellite and terrestrial
IMT components is not feasible unless appropriate mitigation techniques are
applied. When these components are deployed in adjacent geographical areas
in the same frequency bands, technical or operational measures need to be
implemented if harmful interference is reported.

During the WRC-19 an agreement was made with the development of Resolution
212 (Rev. WRC-19)27
“Implementation of IMT in the frequency bands 1 885-2 025 MHz and 2 110-2
200 MHz” and in the Annex of this Resolution “Guidance on the implementation
of technical and operational measures to facilitate coexistence between
terrestrial and satellite components of IMT in the frequency bands 1 980-2 010
MHz and 2 170-2 200 MHz” is given.

FR2 spectrum use for NTN is still being discussed and no agreement has been
reached at the time of this document.

5.3 Co-existence with terrestrial networks

It is not possible to operate terrestrial networks (TN) and NTN in co-exist mode,
for instance, over the same frequency used by both TN and NTN in same
geographical area using FR1 spectrum. It would be up to regional/state level
regulators to decide on whether a specific spectrum/band shall be used for
TN or NTN network. Cross border coordination is mandatory since NTN using
satellites cover areas that span different countries.
24 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

For higher frequencies above 24Ghz Lawful interception should be MCC hint received from the network
(FR2 range), there is possibility for supported in the roaming case, like into account in this fallback to another
co-existence with certain limitations, typical roaming operation among PLMN of the indicated MCC.
but this is to be studied further in different MNOs. Emergency calls
In addition, the UE also needs to pre-
3GPP. It is too early at this stage to may be better handled by the SNO
compensate for the Doppler shift and
determine how feasible it is. Even if to avoid delay in call setup. Special
propagation delay, in order to align
it is technically possible, co-channel consideration needs to be given for
the forward link waveform and reverse
or coexistence with adjacent services QoS and SLA (service level agreement)
link waveform at a specific point of
studies should be managed and due to the difference in user
the communication link such as at the
regulated by regional regulators. performance (throughput, latency)
satellite. A UE with GNSS capability
between NTN and TN.
In 3GPP, the RAN4 Working Group will can determine its frequency and time
run coexistence studies on adjacent It should be noted the definition of compensation through its location and
channels only (NTN-TN and NTN- the PLMN ID for the SNO operator the System Information Block (SIB)-
NTN) and this work is expected to be is up to the SNO operator itself and broadcast satellite ephemeris. As a
completed by March 2022. is outside scope of this white paper. result, 3GPP Release-17 has focused
Optionally for the SNO, it could on UE with GNSS capability. Having
5.4 Roaming and choose to broadcast the MNO’s GNSS capability could also help for
RAN sharing PLMN as Equivalent Home PLMN radio link synchronization, Tracking
(EHPLMN) from its satellite network, Area Code (TAC) assignment and
NTN and TN can operate in either
while defining its HPLMN as a lower paging, Tracking Area Identifier (TAI),
roaming mode or sharing mode
priority PLMN than the MNO’s PLMN forbidden PLMN list, etc.
between Satellite Network Operator
ID in the EHPLMN List. Per 3GPP
(SNO) and Terrestrial Mobile Network Handheld devices in FR1 are
standard (23.122 and 31.10228), the
Operator (MNO). Satellite based NTN supported (e.g., power Class 3 UE).
SNO subscriber will treat the MNO’s
can extend a TN’s coverage to where
network as higher priority network
an MNO does not have presence and 5.6 County specific
to camp, so the SNO subscriber
service backup, for example in the PLMN selection 
can access the MNO’s network to
case where a TN loses coverage due
benefit from the greater speed and Per 3GPP 23.73729, system
to a natural disaster.
lower latency and only use the SNO’s complexities can be expected
In roaming situations, a SNO satellite network when it’s outside when a satellite’s coverage crosses
maintains its own 5G NTN network of the MNO’s terrestrial network country borders and/or the UE’s
(satellite, gNB, core network) but coverage. communications use terrestrial
allows MNO users to connect to equipment (e.g., Earth stations) that
the SNO’s network when there is 5.5 UE eco-system are in a different country to the UE.
no terrestrial coverage. MNO users and availability   This is illustrated in figure 5.3.
still prioritize the MNO’s TN and only
Ideally, UE should be capable of Another similar situation may arise
use the SNO’s NTN when there is no
knowing its location within a certain with the use of satellite backhaul. A
terrestrial network coverage.
country so it can limit its PLMN satellite transport would in this case
The MNO’s network should configure selection to PLMNs broadcasting the interconnect a RAN with a 5GC. The
the SIMs of its users with SNO’s PLMN Mobile Country Code (MCC) of a given satellite’s coverage could overlap more
ID so the mobile users can scan and country. This requires the UE to have than one country. This is illustrated in
access the SNO’s network when it GNSS capability, especially for the Figure 5.3-1.
travels outside of the MNO’s terrestrial GEO satellite case. If the UE receives
This creates issues related to
network and be covered by SNO’s a REGISTRATION REJECT message
emergency call, lawful interception,
NTN network. The MNO subscribers indicating that the requested PLMN is
charging & billing, and public warning
would re-register to its original MNO not allowed in the present UE location,
notification. The current solution
home network once it returns to the then the UE attempts to select another
proposed in 3GPP (described in
coverage of home network. PLMN instead. The UE may take the
23.737 chapter 6.13) uses county
specific PLMN selection to address
these issues.
25 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

On the UE side: if the UE is Figure 5.3 Satellite access with satellite beams overlapping several countries
aware of its present location
inside certain country, the UE
should use that knowledge to
limit its PLMN selection to only
PLMNs of the country of the
present UE location. In case
of Visiting Public Land Mobile
Networks (VPLMN), if the UE is X
aware that it has moved away
from the country of the current
registered VPLMN, then the UE
should use that information to
perform background scanning
of higher priority PLMNs among
those PLMN candidates that are
available in the country of the
present UE location.

On the network side: The network

should verify the UE location
during registration procedure over
satellite access, as it cannot be Figure 5.3-1 Satellite access with satellite beams overlapping several countries
guaranteed that the UE would
always be aware of its present
location. When the UE accessing
over satellite RAT Type initiates
Registration Procedure, the
AMF can trigger UE positioning
procedure to verify that the X
UE is accessing PLMN in the
same country as the present UE
location. If UE is attempting to
register to PLMN that it is not
allowed to access in the present
UE location (e.g., PLMN of
different country than the present
UE location), the AMF responds
with REGISTRATION REJECT,
including suitable cause value to
tell the UE that the selected PLMN
is not allowed in the present UE
location. network functionalities can be
reused to handle emergency call,
There may be additional RAN-related lawful interception, public warning
enhancements needed to handle and charging & billing. In addition,
these situations, as this is a work in 3GPP is also conducting a study in
progress at 3GPP. Release-17 on extra-territorial systems
Following these procedures, it is that includes satellite systems, to
expected the UE will register in ensure all necessary changes in the
one of the PLMNs in the country end-to-end systems are captured and
of the UE location then existing documented.
26 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

6. Network Service Continuity  

This chapter covers several aspects of maintaining network service continuity

and satellite coverage in 5G networks utilizing non terrestrial network elements.
These include initial cell selection, mobility in idle mode, and mobility
management in connected mode.

Satellites in LEO orbits move with high-speed relative to a fixed position on Earth.
The satellite beam towards the Earth defines the area on Earth that the satellite
can provide services to the users. There are two cases on how the satellite
beams can operate:

• Moving-beam scenario: This is the case of a satellite with fixed beams,

which yields a moving footprint on the Earth’s ground. In this case the
beam is moving relative to a fixed position on Earth.
• Fixed-beam scenario: This is the case of a satellite with steerable beams.
As the satellites orbits the Earth, the satellite beams are adjusted so that
it can continue to cover the same geographical area. In this case, as long
as the satellite is above the horizon relative to the given geographical area,
the beams can be adjusted to cover that area.
The fixed-beam scenario yields the maximum time a UE may remain under the
coverage area of the same satellite. This time is the time the satellite remains
above the horizon relative to the UE location, which is approximately seven to ten
minutes.

The times the UE remains under the coverage area of the same satellite for the
moving-beam scenario are illustrated in the table below. The table shows that
this time is dependent on the UE speed, the direction of the UE movement (i.e.,
same direction or opposite directions of the satellite movement), and the cell
size (which is determined based on the satellite beam width: larger beam widths
yield in larger cell sizes).
27 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

Table 6.1 Time the UE Remains in a Cell for a Moving-Beam Scenario • The main concern for proving
the satellite level orbital
parameters is about the size of
such information. The following
solutions can be considered to
provide orbital parameters per
satellite:
• Pre-provision satellite level
orbital parameters for all the
satellites that may serve the
UE in the UE uSIM, including a
satellite ID or index. The satellite
ID of the serving satellite is
then broadcast in the System
Information so that the UE can
find the ephemeris data stored
in uSIM.
• Broadcast satellite level orbital
parameters of the serving
satellite in system information
and the UE derives the position
coordinates of the serving
satellite.
• Information of the neighbouring
satellites can also be provided
• For the smallest cell diameter 6.1 Initial Cell Selection to UE via system information
(50km), the time a stationary or dedicated RRC signalling to
This is a summary of the steps
UE remains under the coverage assist mobility handling.
undertaken by an NTN in selecting an
area of the same satellite is
approximately 6.6 seconds.
initial cell: 6.2 Mobility in Idle Mode
For the largest cell diameter, • When the UE powers-on, it During idle mode, the UE location is
this time is increased to searches for the first satellite- known at the Tracking Area level. The
approximately 132 seconds. The based NTN cell that it can camp Tracking Area is defined as a set of
table shows that the variation of on. If the UE has the satellite cells, each cell belonging to a Tracking
this time as a function of the UE orbital information (I.e., the Area identified by a Tracking Area
speed is relatively small (+/- 4%), ephemeris data), the cell search Code (TAC). The TAC is sent in the
so for analysis purposes, UE can be optimized and take lesser System Information in the Broadcast
speeds can be neglected. time. It is also beneficial if the channel. Multiple cells may belong to
• The time the UE remains in UE knows the Round Trip Time the same tracking area, in which case
the cell for the moving-beam (RTT) well enough to be able they broadcast the same TAC.
scenario is quite short when to do random access. For this,
The UE location is known to the
compared to the fixed beam the initial system information
network as the UE performs the
scenario or to the terrestrial may need to contain further
Registration procedure when it first
systems. The implications in idle ephemeris information on the
turns on. The Registration Request
mode and connected mode UEs exact location of the cell (or
message includes the TAC of the cell
are discussed in the following the satellite broadcasting the
the UE is currently camped on. As the
sub-sections. cell). This information can be
UE moves around and changes cells,
given with respect to the orbital
it reads the System Information in the
plane that the UE already has
new cell to determine the Tracking
information about.
Area of that cell. The UE is allowed to
28 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

move within the same Tracking Area Figure 6.1 An example for Fixed Tracking Areas [TR 38.821]30
without performing any updates. If the
UE enters a new cell with a different
TAC, the UE must perform Registration
in the new cell and send the new
TAC in order to update the network
of its location. Therefore, the larger
the tracking area, the lesser is the
signalling from the UE to the network,
minimizing the UE power consumption.

When the network needs to reach

the UE in idle mode (e.g., incoming
call), the network pages the UE in all
cells belonging to the last tracking
area the UE performed a registration.
geographical area and the TAC The figure below illustrates the
If the Tracking Area is very large
broadcast by the satellite is updated trade-off to be considered when
and includes many cells, there is an
to reflect the new geographical area networks based on these solutions are
increase in the number of pages, as
covered. At the same time, when the deployed: The number of registration
the network will page the UE in all cells
UE detects a new TAC in the broadcast updates from the UE, the number of
belonging to the TAC. The operator
channel, the UE performs the tracking pages needed to reach a given UE,
strategy for network deployment
area update procedure. In this case, and the paging load variation from cell
usually involves considers the trade-
if the UE does not change its physical to cell.
offs between the number of pages
location on Earth, the Tracking Area for
required to find the UE versus UE 6.3 Mobility Management in
that UE remains fixed.
power consumption. This optimization
Connected Mode
also takes into consideration the cell The solution proposed in further
load, as the higher the number of UEs divided in two modes: hard or soft While the UE is in connected mode,
in the cell, the higher is the number of switch. mobility is handled by handovers. In
pages sent from the network. terrestrial networks, handovers are
Hard Switch: One cell broadcasts
triggered by the network based on
If the same model is used for a a single TAC per PLMN. The gNB
measurements reported from the UE
satellite system, with each satellite replaces the old TAC with the new TAC
about the current cell and neighbor
broadcasting a TAC, as the satellite when the geographical area under
cell signal quality. The handover
orbits the Earth, the tracking areas coverage changes. This mode may
procedure is illustrated in the figure
would sweep over the ground, as it create some TAC fluctuation at the
below. The service interruption time is
is illustrated in the figure below. In border area, possibly resulting in some
defined as the time between when the
this case, even a stationary UE would ping-pong behavior in the UE.
UE stops transmission/reception with
have to perform registration updates the source gNB and the time when
Soft Switch: One cell may broadcast
quite often, which would impact the target gNB resumes transmission/
more than one TACs per PLMN. The
UE battery life and increase uplink reception.
gNB adds the new TAC in its system
signalling.
information and broadcasts both TACs
The interruption time is different in
To address this potential issue, the simultaneously for a given time length.
the uplink and in the downlink. For the
3GPP body proposed the concept The gNB then may remove the old TAC
downlink, the interruption time can
of a fixed tracking area. In the fixed at a later time, when no longer serving
be defined as the time from network
tracking area concept, the system is the boundary of the geographical area.
sending RRC Reconfiguration with
designed so that the tracking area This mode may reduce the number
sync (Step 3) until the target gNB
does not change its geographical of updates performed by UEs at the
receives the RRC Reconfiguration
location on Earth. Instead of the border area. A potential issue in this
Complete (Step 6). Since the gNB
tracking area moving as the satellite mode is a possible imbalance of the
cannot send more data after step 3,
moves, the satellite changes the distribution of paging load among the
and it can continue after it receives
Tracking Area as it enters the new cells.
29 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

Figure 6.1-1 Tracking Area Update vs. Paging Load Tradeoffs

RRC Reconfiguration Complete. For the LEO, however the latter requires conditional HO in LEO scenarios
uplink, the UE can potentially continue consideration of satellite movement. should consider deterministic
sending data to the source gNB until To avoid extended service interruption, satellite movement.
RRC Reconfiguration with sync is latency associated with mobility • Timing advance based triggering:
received, the interruption time can be signalling should be addressed for Triggering based on the timing
defined as the time from UE receiving both cases. advance value to the target cell.
RRC Reconfiguration with sync (Step
Adding Other Handover Triggers • Elevation angles of source and
3) until the target gNB receives the
target cells-based triggering:
RRC Reconfiguration Complete (Step Besides measurement triggered
additional triggering conditions
6). handovers, other triggers can be
based on elevation angles of
considered for handover decisions, as
Propagation delay in satellite-based source and target cells can be
follows:
NTN is orders of magnitude higher considered in satellite-based
than terrestrial systems, introducing • Triggering based on location of NTN.
additional latency to mobility signalling the UE and the satellite: Location • These triggering conditions may
such as measurement reporting, triggering condition may be be considered independently or
reception of the HO command, and expressed as distance between jointly.
HO request/ACK (if the target cell the UE and the satellite. Conditional Handover
originates from a different satellite). • Timer-based triggering:
The deterministic satellite movement
GEO scenarios are characterized by Triggering conditions based
can also be considered in the
much larger propagation delay than on the time a region is served
handover decision. Configurations
can be considered. Time-based
30 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

Figure 6.2 a) Terrestrial Network b) Satellite-Based Non-Terrestrial Network

related to the target gNB can be provided to the UE in advance, as the satellite
orbit is known. This solution is referred to as conditional handover: The handover
configuration (i.e., configuration in the new cell) is provided in advance, together
with a condition that will trigger such handover before the radio conditions get
too poor. The UE monitors the condition and performs the handover when the
condition is met.

Conditional handover in satellite-based NTNs can be based on time and UE

location (which corresponds to elevation angles). Also, the remaining time until
the satellite will stop serving a cell can be broadcasted by the satellite.

Another benefit of knowing the satellite ephemeris is that if the UE knows its
own location. In this case, it can estimate the required Timing Advance value
of the target gNB. The UE then can perform pre-compensation of delay and
Doppler shift for all UL transmissions using that information.

In non-GEO deployments satellites constantly move with respect to a fixed point

on earth. Such movement may have several implications to the UE, such as how
long a candidate cell will remain valid.

Given the deterministic movement of satellites in LEO, the network may be

able to compensate for the changing cell set via existing Rel-15 mechanisms,
possibly with the aid of UE location.

As GEO satellites are relatively static, dynamic neighbor cell set is not anticipated
to be a challenge.

Configuration Considerations

It is important to note that the received signal strength in a satellite cell does not
vary much throughout the cell, as it is illustrated in the figure below. Therefore,
the difference of the signal strength measured at the center of the cell versus
the edge of the cell is small, and this should be taken into consideration when
configuring the measurement triggering and measurement reporting thresholds.

Measurement Optimizations

There are some optimizations that can be done to optimize the UE measurement
performance by taking advantage of the fact that the UE is being serviced by a
satellite with known orbit.
31 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

• Conditional triggering of measurement reporting: The triggering of

measurement reporting can be based on UE location.
• Inclusion of location information in the measurement report: Location
information may be piggy backed onto the measurement report to provide
the network additional information when determining whether to HO.
• Network compensation of propagation delay difference between satellites:
The network can compensate for propagation delay differences in the UE
measurement window, e.g., via system information, or in a UE specific
manner via dedicated signaling.
32 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

Conclusion

5G continues to make progress in standards and deployments throughout the

world. The advancements for integrating the non-terrestrial networks (NTN)
continue at as fast pace as well. There are multiple new NTN being proposed
and launched that could complement the 5G services through integrated
reliable coverage across different geographies. 5G will offer new business
models and use cases with NTN providing additional coverage possibilities to
extend these use cases to new areas.

There is much more work to be done regarding NTN in future releases at 3GPP.
3GPP Release 17 will introduce new network topologies into the 3GPP specs
that include high-altitude platforms and Low Earth Orbit and geosynchronous
orbit satellites.

New constellations of satellite deployments and work at 3GPP has provided

a possible pathway for closer integration of Terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial
Networks. Overall, there is increased activities in the various industry groups,
standards organizations and commercial companies to work toward solutions
for consumers and enterprises that integrate both types of networks. This
paper focused on the multiple aspects of 5G satellite-based networks from
architecture, standards to deployments.
33 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

Acronyms

A-GNSS: Assisted GNSS ISL: Inter Satellite Links PLMN: Public Land Mobile Network

AMF: Access and Mobility ITU: International

Management Function Telecommunication Union QoS: Quality of Service

ATG: Air to Ground LCS: Location Services RLC: Radio Link Control

CPRI: Common Public Radio LEO: Low Earth Orbit

Interface RTT: Round Trip Time

MCS: Modulation and Coding

CQI: Channel Quality Indication Scheme SA: Stand Alone

e-MTC: enhanced Machine Type MEO: Medium Earth Orbit

SLA: Service Level Agreement
Communication

MNO: Mobile Network Operator

FDD: Frequency Division Duplex SMF: Session Management Function

MOCN: Multi-Operator Core Network

FR1: Frequency Range 1
SNO: Satellite Network Operator
MORAN: Multiple Operator RAN
FR2: Frequency Range 2
SRI: Satellite Radio Interface
MTC: machine type communication
GEO: Geostationary Earth Orbit
TAC: Tracking Area Code
NB-IoT: Narrow Band IoT
GNSS: Global Navigation Satellite
System
NG-RAN: Next Generation Radio TAI: Tracking Area Identifier
Access Network
gNB: GNodeB
TN: Terrestrial Network
NGSO: Non-Geostationary Satellite
GSMA: GSM Association Orbit

TR: Technical Report

HAPS: High Altitude Platform System NSA: Non-Standalone

VPLMN: Visiting Public Land Mobile

IMT: International Mobile NTN: Non-Terrestrial Network Network
Telecommunications

PDCP: Packet Data Convergence

IoT: Internet of Things Protocol WCRTT: Worst Cast Round Trip Time
34 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

Acknowledgments
5G Americas’ Mission Statement: 5G Americas facilitates and advocates for
the advancement and transformation of LTE, 5G and beyond throughout the
Americas.

5G Americas’ Board of Governors members include Airspan Networks, Antel,

AT&T, Ciena, Cisco, Crown Castle, Ericsson, Intel, Liberty Latin America, Mavenir,
Nokia, Qualcomm Incorporated, Samsung, Shaw Communications Inc., T-Mobile
USA, Inc., Telefónica, VMware and WOM.

5G Americas would like to recognize the significant project leadership and

important contributions of group leaders Sridhar Rajagopal, Mavenir and Rahul
Pal, T-Mobile along with many representatives from member companies on 5G
Americas’ Board of Governors who participated in the development of this white
paper.

5G Americas assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in this document.

This document is subject to revision or removal at any time without notice. No
representations or warranties (whether expressed or implied) are made by 5G
Americas and 5G Americas is not liable for and hereby disclaims any direct,
indirect, punitive, special, incidental, consequential, or exemplary damages
arising out of or in connection with the use of this document and any information
contained in this document.

© Copyright 2022 5G Americas

35 5G & Non-Terrestrial Networks | February 2022

Endnotes
1
RP-171450
2
RP-190710
3
RP-211784
4
TR 22.822
5
TS 22.261
6
SP-181253
7
TR 23.737
8
SP-191335
9
SP-190138
10
TR 28.808
11
CP-203235
12
TR 24.821
13
[RP-193235]
14
TR 36.763

X. Lin, S. Rommer, S. Euler, E. A. Yavuz, and R. S. Karlsson, “5G from space: An overview of 3GPP non-terrestrial
15

networks,” arXiv preprint arXiv:2103.09156, March 2021.

X. Lin, S. Rommer, S. Euler, E. A. Yavuz, and R. S. Karlsson, “5G from space: An overview of 3GPP non-terrestrial
16

networks,” arXiv preprint arXiv:2103.09156, March 2021

17
TR 38.821
18
TR 38.821
19
TR 38.821
20
TR 38.821
21
3GPP R4-2115640
22
3GPP Study Report 23.737
23
TR 38.821
24
3GPP 38.821
25
3GPP 23.737
26
https://www.itu.int/dms_pubrec/itu-r/rec/m/R-REC-M.1036-6-201910-I!!PDF-E.pdf
27
https://www.itu.int/dms_pub/itu-r/oth/0C/0A/R0C0A00000F0068PDFE.pdf
28
3GPP standard (23.122 and 31.102)
29
3GPP 23.737
30
Time the UE Remains in a Cell for a Moving-Beam Scenario [TR 38.821]