Hybrid Non Terrestrial Network

Demonstrating powerful global, hybrid real-time connectivity from Canada to Saudi Arabia using a non-terrestrial network (NTN) and mobile cellular communications

Trial tests satellite & cellular mobile, hybrid communications with an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle to demonstrate direct-to-device possibilities for smart phones and IoT devices, globally.

How global, hybrid mobile connectivity works

A hybrid network would seamlessly unite mobile terrestrial and non-terrestrial satellite to create a seamless connectivity experience, eliminating coverage gaps for consumer and enterprise users everywhere.

About the Trial

Airmarket and Omnispace successfully conducted a trial to demonstrate how seamless global voice and data connectivity is possible, in real-time, around the globe. Together, the companies tested direct-to-device ubiquitous mobile voice and data communications using both mobile cellular and Omnispace’s satellite non-terrestrial network (NTN) system.

Conducted at the Aramco, Dhahran Fire Training Center in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the trial demonstrated the future Omnispace 5G non-terrestrial hybrid network architecture. The objective was to successfully connect a drone to both the Omnispace existing non-geostationary satellite orbit (NGSO) network and the Saudi Telecom Company (STC) cellular network. Airmarket installed an onboard computer providing the functionality to switch between cellular and satellite connectivity services. The hexacopter’s connectivity, surveillance and monitoring was enabled by Airmarket’s Skylink Service.

The drone was controlled remotely from Edmonton, Canada and flown in Dhahran using the simulated hybrid satellite and cellular mobile network.

Hexacopter Trial: Demonstrating Hybrid Network Communications Capabilities

The trial showed how a combined non-terrestrial satellite and mobile cellular hybrid network could connect one device, such as a hexacopter drone, through the the following tests:

Trial #1: Cellular to satellite connectivity
Trial #2: Satellite to cellular connectivity
Trial #3: Uniting satellite and cellular connectivity

Pushing the limits of what’s possible with 5G satellite and cellular connectivity

Omnispace is launching its next-generation LEO system that will operate in the S-Band and redefine mobile connectivity by creating the world’s first global and mobile 5G non-terrestrial network — delivering the power of 5G directly to devices from its satellites in space. The hybrid system will connect to a mobile network operator’s (MNO) network when inside the carrier’s coverage area, and will eliminate coverage gaps when outside the coverage area by seamlessly switching to the non-terrestrial network.

Figure 1. Omnispace hybrid system combines global NGSO coverage and mobile networking roaming.

Airmarket provides the tools and end-to-end services required to operate UAV fleets safely and efficiently. The company offers enterprise users remote access on a dedicated control plan, enabling admin users to add and remove routes, and determine the use of service. It’s web-enabled solution makes it possible to manage unmanned air traffic so that UAV and drone flights can safely integrate into specified airspace.

Figure 2: Airmarket Solution Architecture.

Conclusion – Reliable connectivity is possible, anywhere

The experiment objective was achieved: demonstrating hybrid command and control of a UAV using both cellular and satellite communication systems.

This trial is a preview of the technological innovation Omnispace will enable with its 5G non-terrestrial network, paired with mobile network operators, to offer seamless mobile connectivity, anywhere in the world.

A hybrid non-terrestrial network and cellular connectivity will make reliable communications possible from anywhere in real-time, eliminating coverage gaps in unconnected areas around the planet.

Ominspace sees the future of global communications as hybrid, where our satellites extend and augment the reach of terrestrial mobile networks on a worldwide basis.