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NTN Regenerative Payload

Onboard Processing Satellite Architecture

Satellite architecture hosting a full or partial gNodeB (gNB-DU or full gNodeB) directly onboard the spacecraft.

Technical Explanation

In regenerative payload mode, the satellite carries onboard computing hardware hosting gNodeB software. The satellite demodulates, decodes, and routes 5G packets in orbit, switching traffic directly between satellites via Inter-Satellite Links (ISL) without bouncing signals back to terrestrial ground stations.

Key Functions

  • Hosts full or disaggregated gNodeB software directly onboard the spacecraft
  • Demodulates and routes 5G packets in orbit with zero ground station bounce
  • Utilizes laser Inter-Satellite Links (ISL) for global space mesh networking
Specifications
3GPP TS 38.300, TR 38.821
Interfaces
Uu

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