The 5G-STARDUST project stands at the cusp of a technological revolution, aiming to develop a self-organized networking architecture that will set the stage for the emerging 6G systems. This ambitious initiative seeks to achieve the unification of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks (NTN), fulfilling the demanding service requirements anticipated from 6G systems. By creating a network architecture that can seamlessly adapt to an array of service and network conditions, 5G-STARDUST promises to transform our understanding of connectivity and set new standards for future communication technologies.
The Need for Unified Networks
As the global demand for connectivity continues to surge, the necessity to unify terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks becomes increasingly critical. Sectors such as Public Protection and Disaster Relief (PPDR), mobile transportation, societal needs, and Industry 4.0 demand robust and reliable communication networks to fulfill their unique requirements. However, traditional methods of integrating heterogeneous network technologies by extending or complementing existing air- and network-interfaces are no longer sufficient. A modern approach is essential to effectively manage the distinctive characteristics of different network technologies.
The convergence of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks introduces significant challenges in communication and networking. This includes the handling of time-variant network topologies and dynamic data traffic, which require a flexible and adaptable network architecture. The extreme variability inherent in a unified network system necessitates a polymorphic design capable of adjusting to diverse service requirements and network conditions. In this context, the potential of a self-organized networking paradigm becomes particularly promising, leveraging advancements in technology to offer innovative solutions to complex communication challenges.
Leveraging Network Softwarisation and Automation
The 5G-STARDUST project leverages the latest advancements in network softwarisation and automation to support emerging trends like direct-to-satellite connectivity. With a focus on the 5G-Advanced standardization wave from the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), the project aims to pave the way towards the realization of 6G systems. Funded under the Smart Network Service (SNS) Joint-Undertaking (JU) initiative as part of the Horizon Europe program, 5G-STARDUST commenced on January 1, 2023, and will continue its development until December 31, 2025. The primary objective is to demonstrate the convergence between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks through advanced laboratory testbeds.
A pivotal goal of the 5G-STARDUST project is to demonstrate the feasibility of deploying next-generation Node B (gNB) in space. This will be achieved by utilizing a self-organized networking paradigm architecture and a unified radio interface. The project is dedicated to developing the essential functionalities required for optimized system performance and network automation, employing AI-based strategies. These strategies are applied to critical areas such as Radio Resource Management (RRM), multi-link connectivity, and network slicing, ensuring efficient and effective communication operations in the 6G era.
Developing a Flexible and Modular Network Architecture
Central to the 5G-STARDUST project’s objectives is the creation of a flexible and modular network architecture capable of adapting its functions according to specific user needs and network conditions. This adaptability presents a unique challenge, particularly for non-geosynchronous orbit (NGSO) satellite systems. The mobility of space nodes relative to the ground often leads to numerous handover events, complicating effective communication management. Additionally, the deployment of gNB in space is constrained by the current satellite capabilities concerning size, power, and storage.
To address these limitations, the project is developing a versatile system architecture that distributes gNB functionalities along with overall 5G/6G functionalities in space. These functionalities can be activated as needed based on specific service or traffic conditions, leveraging well-established practices from 3GPP and the Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) for ‘functional splitting.’ A prevailing trend within the 5G-STARDUST initiative is the expectation that all satellites will be inherently 5G-native. The corresponding functionalities will be activated as needed according to principles of network orchestration, slicing, and service function chaining, ensuring efficient and dynamic network operations.
Enhancing Data Distribution and Communication Operations
Efficient data distribution across the space segment represents another crucial focus of the 5G-STARDUST project. Inter-satellite links and routing-in-space solutions are vital components required to achieve this objective. The project endeavors to enhance the service-oriented architecture of data communication by implementing a semantic routing approach, building on experiences from other concurrent research initiatives. Full softwarisation of space segments is considered a key enabler. It supports more service-oriented operations and represents a significant step towards the realization of 6G-enabled satellite systems.
Effective communication operations rely on the proper coordination and convergence between terrestrial and non-terrestrial subnetworks. This particularly applies to the implementation of multi/dual connectivity, involving traffic segregation, sharing, or offloading between networks. The 5G-STARDUST project actively contributes to standardization efforts within the 3GPP framework. These efforts are aimed at maturing the current specifications of the 5G-Advanced wave and progressing towards the development of 6G network system elements. By establishing standardized procedures and protocols, the project ensures the seamless integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks in the future.
Demonstrating Convergence and Future Implications
The 5G-STARDUST project stands at the brink of a technological revolution, aiming to develop a self-organizing networking architecture that paves the way for the forthcoming 6G systems. This ambitious initiative aspires to unify terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks (NTN), meeting the demanding service requirements expected from 6G. By creating a network architecture capable of seamlessly adapting to various service and network conditions, the 5G-STARDUST project promises to redefine our understanding of connectivity. It aims to set new standards for future communication technologies by addressing the challenge of integrating different types of networks into a cohesive, efficient system. The project is poised to revolutionize the way we think about and interact with communication networks, offering a more resilient, adaptive, and robust framework that could handle the diverse and demanding needs of future digital environments. In essence, 5G-STARDUST is not just a step forward but a leap towards realizing a more interconnected world, setting the foundation for the next generation of communication technologies.
