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5G Connectivity Revolutionized

In a remarkable display of technological advancement, Omnispace, in collaboration with Gatehouse Satcom and Nordic Semiconductor, has successfully shown the capabilities of a 5G narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) system using their S-band non-geostationary orbit satellite. This demonstration is a significant leap in mobile connectivity, blending satellite technology with advanced wireless networks for the first time on a global scale.

The Milestone Achievement

Taking place on May 28, 2025, this demonstration involved the seamless transmission of a 5G NB-IoT signal through the Omnispace F2 satellite, marking the first successful operation of such a system over a non-geostationary satellite environment. Five terminals received data from the satellite, illustrating the potential of satellite-based communication to support a variety of applications across different sectors.

Ram Viswanathan, President and CEO of Omnispace, remarked, "We are demonstrating what’s possible for the future of global communications." This statement underlines the promise of combining satellite technology with 5G capabilities—allowing connectivity in even the most remote areas of the planet—dismissing the demand for traditional terrestrial infrastructure.

Groundwork for Innovation

The success of this demonstration stems from a feasibility study by Omnispace and Gatehouse Satcom that focused on integrating standards-based 5G IoT services with non-geostationary satellites like the F2. The collaboration highlights the adaptability of contemporary devices and solutions to implement reliable connectivity solutions irrespective of geographical barriers.

At the core of this demonstration is Nordic Semiconductor’s nRF9151 module, recognized as the smallest cellular IoT solution available today. Built for efficient power consumption, this component can sustain outstanding battery performance, ensuring connectivity across remote locations. Its LTE-M/NB-IoT modem makes it viable for diverse use cases, delivering an edge in connectivity regardless of the medium used for communication—be it satellite or terrestrial networks.

A Step Towards Global Connectivity

"This demonstration marks a key step in making global, seamless 5G IoT connectivity a reality," Viswanathan added. The incorporation of systems designed by Gatehouse Satcom, capable of operating efficiently across different orbital types—geostationary (GEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), and Low Earth Orbit (LEO)—is proof of innovation in real-world applications.

Jesper Noer, VP Commercial at Gatehouse Satcom, praised the performance of their 5G NTN NB-IoT NodeB during the demo, specifically in the use of S-band technology which introduces new dynamics in technical performance. Gatehouse Satcom's commitment to fostering interoperable, globally reachable communication networks aligns seamlessly with Omnispace’s vision for integrated satellite services.

A Bright Future for IoT Applications

The potential applications for satellite-enabled NB-IoT systems are endless, unlocking solutions across a wide array of sectors such as smart agriculture, utility metering, environmental monitoring, asset management, and logistical operations. Connectivity disruptions may become a thing of the past, with low-power IoT devices, thanks to this breakthrough, able to communicate effectively in even the most inhospitable locations.

Nordic Semiconductor’s Kristian Sæther expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "This breakthrough enables low-power IoT devices to connect via satellite in remote or infrastructure-limited areas." With each step taken toward harmonizing satellite and terrestrial technologies, the pathways for enhanced global communication continue to widen.

As Omnispace plans the upcoming deployment of its 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) connectivity services, interest in such pioneering developments only amplifies. Stakeholders across industries can look forward to outcomes that promise enhanced resilience, cost-effectiveness, and comprehensiveness in IoT connectivity solutions.

To discover more about these innovations and how they may reshape future communications, visit Omnispace.com.

About the Companies

• - Omnispace LLC: Based in Washington D.C., Omnispace is leading the way in redefining mobile connectivity by integrating 5G technologies with satellite solutions, thus making mobile access ubiquitous globally.
• - Gatehouse Satcom: A Danish software company specializing in developing advanced communications protocols tailored for satellite operations, strengthening the ecosystem of non-terrestrial networks.
• - Nordic Semiconductor: Renowned for providing low-power wireless solutions tailored for high-performance connectivity across various platforms, leading the charge in global IoT advancement.