① Satellite communications play a critical role in global connectivity but face growing cybersecurity threats, exemplified by incidents like the 2019 GPS disruption in Scandinavia;

② Emerging 5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN) introduce unique security challenges, requiring quantum-resistant encryption and beam-hopping techniques to prevent interception;

③ Legacy systems like DVB-S2 have evolved with enhanced encryption and real-time monitoring to address vulnerabilities, underscoring the need for continuous security innovation in satellite infrastructure.

Fraunhofer IIS has developed a new splitting method for integrating satellites into the 5G network, which allows for the use of different classes of satellites. This method splits the base station, with part of the signal processing occurring in space and the rest on the ground. The approach aims to enhance communication infrastructure flexibility and support the transition from 5G to 6G.

The research is part of the TRANTOR project, which is funded by the European Commission and focuses on preparing the transition of satellite communications from 5G to 6G.

Fraunhofer IIS is also involved in 5G standardization and the European Space Agency's NTN Forum.

Fraunhofer IIS has developed a split method to integrate satellites of different classes into the 5G network. This method divides a 5G base station into two parts, with only part of the signal processing happening in space, while the other remains on the ground. This approach allows satellites to contribute to communication while minimizing computational, energy, and resource use.

The method is part of the TRANTOR project, which aims to prepare for the transition from 5G to 6G satellite communication. It is expected to lead to a dense and universally available communication network with high resilience in emergency situations.

➀ The 2025 SIG Awards highlighted innovations in satellite communications at SATShow '25 in Washington D.C.;

➁ Mission Microwave Technologies won the Innovation of the Year for its one-kilowatt Hub mount Ku-band BUC;

➂ Kacific Broadband Satellites was recognized for providing affordable high-speed internet in the Asia-Pacific region;

➃ Space Skills Alliance won the Educational Project of the Year for addressing UK space skills shortages;

➄ Lukas Nyström of Satcube was named Young Engineer of the Year.

➀ Rohde & Schwarz introduces the R&S NRP140TWG(N) thermal power sensor, expanding its product line for precise RF power measurements in the 90 GHz to 140 GHz frequency range.

➁ Key features include a dynamic range of -35 dBm to +20 dBm, control via USB and LAN, and outstanding performance for reference applications.

➂ The sensor supports future automotive radar and satellite communication technologies, offering plug-and-play solutions with excellent stability and traceability.

➀ The UK Space Agency has awarded £1.8 million to SatixFy for the development of a software suite for digital satellite payloads.

➁ The software aims to enable flexible, adaptive, and intelligent satellite networks for LEO, MEO, and GEO payloads.

➂ The project is part of the C-LEO programme and is designed to support the rapid growth of the global space sector.

➀ The UK Space Agency (UKSA) has provided Excelerate, a Welsh communications integration specialist, with a £6 million award to develop a multi-orbit, multi-beam satellite antenna.

➁ The project, known as MAMUT, is designed to allow users to choose an operator and orbit via an app, providing high-speed connectivity even in remote locations.

➂ The UKSA’s Connectivity in Low-Earth Orbit (C-LEO) programme is funding this initiative, which aims to keep the UK at the forefront of the space connectivity industry.

➀ Professor Christian Waldschmidt of the University of Ulm has become a new member of the German Academy of Science and Engineering (acatech).

➁ He is an internationally recognized expert in high-frequency technology and conducts research on antenna and radar systems as well as satellite communication.

➂ Waldschmidt supports acatech with his scientific expertise in fulfilling their social mission: scientific policy advice.