Japanese Consortium Makes History with 5G Communication Demonstration at 4km Altitude Using 38GHz Band
In a remarkable achievement, a consortium in Japan has successfully showcased the world’s first 5G conversation from a height of 4km utilizing the 38GHz band. This milestone highlights Japan’s leading role in advancing and implementing 5G networks. The innovative approach taken by the consortium has the potential to transform communication systems, opening up new possibilities for enhanced connectivity and productivity across various industries. Let’s explore the details of this extraordinary feat and the future implications of 5G technology reaching new heights.
Breaking New Ground in Telecommunications Technology
On a recent day in Tokyo, SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation, NTT DOCOMO, INC., the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), and Panasonic Holdings Corporation announced a successful 5G communication trial in the 38GHz band from a height of approximately 4km. This test was conducted onboard a miniature Cessna aircraft operated by Kyoritsu Air Survey Co., Ltd., simulating the future use of High-Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS). This demonstration marked a significant advancement in the realm of telecommunications.
The trial focused on showcasing the practical applications of 5G feeder links and backhaul lines for HAPS. The Cessna aircraft was equipped with innovative communication equipment known as the “Cessna onboard unit,” which is expected to be deployed in HAPS in the future. Additionally, a lens-type antenna with an auto-tracking feature served as the ground station for HAPS communication.
Establishing a new standard in communication technology, the trial successfully created an aerial relay backhaul line between the Cessna aircraft flying at 4km altitude and three ground stations using the 5G New Radio (NR) standard with 38GHz band radio waves. This achievement of multiple backhaul lines through aerial relays using 5G NR with 38GHz band radio waves set a global precedent in telecommunication technology.
Future Implications and Collaborative Efforts
As the evolution of 5G continues and the prospects of 6G implementation loom on the horizon, there is a push to expand coverage areas. Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) utilizing HAPS represent a promising technology for such expansions. The results from this demonstration will contribute to the practical implementation of HAPS networks, enabling broader connectivity and communication capabilities.
The four organizations involved in this venture are committed to ongoing collaboration, with the goal of early deployment of 5G via stratospheric NTN using HAPS technology. This demonstration aligns with a larger project focused on wireless communication systems using HAPS, spearheaded by Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.
Conclusion
the successful demonstration of 5G communication from a 4km altitude using the 38GHz band marks a significant milestone in the advancement of telecommunications technology. This achievement not only showcases Japan’s leadership in the field but also opens up new possibilities for enhanced connectivity and efficiency in various industries. As the world prepares for the next generation of communication networks, collaborations and innovations like these will play a crucial role in shaping the future of connectivity.