T&M tackling the challenges of NTN evolving on the path to 6G

Heading towards 6G we envision the contribution of NTN into the 6G system, IMT-2030 sets some clear requirements incorporating a non-terrestrial, unified network architecture from it’s inception. Release 17 considered as the start of NTN in 5G targets at enabling non-terrestrial network services. Later releases enhance the NTN contribution and even if 6G may be an evolution and not a revolution, NTN will play a pivotal role from the advent of 6G.
This presentation will outline the technology evolution from the first NTN up to the anticipated technology evolutions on the path to 6G. The NTN technology starts with transparent payload architecture, incorporates regenerative payload and multi-connectivity mobility scenarios on a mid-term basis, and then looks towards long-term aspects 3D unified and resilient networks.
Focus of the presentation are the challenges with respect to the architecture evolution, specific use cases like e.g. the UE accessing the network and we would like to present the evolution of Test and Measurement aspects and how T&M can ensure the successful operation and development of future NTN networks. Latter one targets at topics like antenna array testing using OTA methods, mobility scenarios and channel modeling aspects.