With a new Memorandum of Intent (MoI) signed by the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Mobile Satellite Services Association (MSSA), seamless mobile connectivity that extends everywhere from rural areas to bustling cities has just become closer to reality. The collaboration aims to overcome current coverage limitations by seamlessly combining space and terrestrial systems, helping to close the digital divide across Europe.
MSSA is a global non-profit industry group that represents leading organisations across the direct-to-device ecosystem – satellite operators, mobile network operators, phone manufacturers, chip venders, and original equipment manufacturers – with a goal to offer scalable, sustainable and affordable connectivity to any device. By aligning with Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standards, they aim to expand coverage for both traditional telecom operators and digital service providers.
ESA’s alliance with MSSA adds to the growing momentum for the creation of an open architecture, standards-based network approach to enable future internet-of-things (IoT) connections and telecommunications networks that can seamlessly switch between ground-based and satellite connections, promising more reliable and widespread coverage for users.
The two-year agreement outlines various activities, including sharing expertise, ideas and lessons learned, as well as organising joint workshops and coordinating research initiatives. While maintaining their operational independence, both organisations will work together to create awareness and promote opportunities for collaboration in the space-based telecommunications sector. Particularly focusing on D2D services and innovative network solutions, the partnership will ensure the integrity, security, and sovereignty of national telecommunications networks across Europe and beyond.
This initiative falls under ESA’s Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES) strategic programme line, Space for 5G/6G and Sustainable Connectivity, which focuses on integrating non-terrestrial networks (NTN) and terrestrial networks to advance 5G/6G accessibility. This work is crucial for emergency response services and bringing vital digital services like telemedicine, tele-education and teleworking to remote areas.