Sky Perfect JSAT opens an NTN lab in Japan. Photo: JSAT

Sky Perfect JSAT is launching a new facility as it looks to be a pioneer in 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN) technologies in Japan. It has unveiled its Universal NTN Innovation Lab (NTN Lab), where it will conduct technical trials around 5G NTN technology. The lab will be located within the company’s Yokohama Satellite Control Center (YSCC). Work has begun in the NTN Lab this month, the JSAT announced Monday.

Leveraging its Geostationary (GEO) satellites and the infrastructure of YSCC, the NTN Lab will provide a foundation for the commercial deployment of NTN technology. Sky Perfect JSAT said the NTN Lab will expand in a number of phases. Initially, it will focus on verifying the core technologies of 5G NTN, utilizing JSAT’s satellites and facilities, with support from its partner companies. By the second half of next year, JSAT plans to open the NTN Lab to various companies and organizations for collaborative trials for future use cases and applications.

The NTN Lab will be equipped with high-performance simulators for 5G NTN-compatible user equipment and base stations, including the TM50 by Viavi Solutions and the CMX500 by Rohde & Schwarz.

JSAT said this equipment will enable extensive technology validation with a focus on commercial deployment, supporting a wide range of testing scenarios. JSAT plans to use the NTN Lab as a hub to support the communication infrastructure of the future, driving technological innovation while collaborating with companies and research institutions. Through these efforts, the company is committed to advance the commercialization of NTN technology and the creation of new business opportunities.