CNES has selected two France 2030 projects to test direct-to-device satellite and space connectivity for 5G. The objective is to demonstrate that space-based systems can complement terrestrial 5G coverage.
One of the selected efforts is led by French startup Univity, formerly known as Constellation Technologies & Operations, which is developing its project in partnership with telecom infrastructure operator TDF. CNES is providing Univity with 31 million in France 2030 funding.
What CNES is funding under France 2030
CNES selected two projects to be tested in direct-to-device satellite and space connectivity for 5G as part of the France 2030 program. The selected projects are intended to validate a model where space-based connectivity can extend or complement terrestrial 5G coverage.
Univitys 31 million France 2030 stake, with TDF as partner
Within France 2030, CNES awarded 31 million in financing to French startup Univity. Univity is formerly known as Constellation Technologies & Operations, and it is developing its project with TDF, a telecom infrastructure operator.
The end-to-end 5G NTN experiment and the system components
A press statement associated with the selection says the experimentation aims to validate the relevance of an end-to-end 5G NTN solution made in France. The proposed solution combines satellites in very low Earth orbit with terrestrial infrastructures.
Read for satellite NTN and wholesale terrestrial-extension planners
If you plan terrestrial coverage extensions via NTN, the CNES selection frames the test around validating an end-to-end 5G NTN approach made in France. The Univity/TDF setup also puts an infrastructure operator in the loop for the terrestrial side of the experiment.