GSOA & ESA Strengthen Collaboration to Foster 5G & 6G Space-Based Systems

The MOI reinforces the synergy between satellite and terrestrial telecommunications to unlock the full potential of both technologies & propel connectivity into a new era of possibilities for all

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM, 6th February 2024 – The Global Satellite Operators Association (GSOA) and the European Space Agency (ESA) proudly announced today the signing of a Memorandum of Intent (MOI) that marks a significant milestone in their collaborative efforts to cooperate in the areas of space-based 5G & 6G ecosystem, innovation of 5G & 6G networks, and the integration of satellite and terrestrial networks and technologies.

The MOI, signed by Isabelle Mauro, Director General at GSOA, and Francisco-Javier Benedicto Ruiz, Acting Director of Connectivity & Secure Communications at ESA, solidifies the commitment of both organizations to work closely together in the pursuit of their shared goals in this area.

This strategic partnership between GSOA and ESA aims to bring the mobile and the satellite communities closer together, to accelerate the innovation in the integration of satellites in 5G & 6G networks, leveraging the unique strengths and expertise each entity brings to the table. The MOI establishes a framework for cooperation to fostering innovation, knowledge exchange, and mutual support.

“GSOA actively engages in the dynamic ecosystem of non-terrestrial and terrestrial integration. This powerful synergy, by unlocking the full potential of both satellite and terrestrial telecommunications, not only enables to advance technology, but also ensures that it connects everyone, everywhere, shaping the future of connectivity, and working towards resolving the digital divide. By fostering collaboration and embracing innovation, we envision a future where every individual, regardless of location, enjoys the benefits of a connected world”, said Isabelle Mauro, Director General at GSOA.

“We are looking forward to working closer with GSOA on a series of joint initiatives and use our collective expertise to unlock the full potential of 5G and 6G technology towards a future where space-born connectivity is seamlessly integrated with terrestrial 5G/6G networks for the benefit of billions of users worldwide,” concluded Francisco-Javier Benedicto Ruiz, Acting Director of Connectivity & Secure Communications at ESA.

Following on many years of successful cooperation, this MOI symbolises the start of an exciting journey towards the integration of satellite and terrestrial networks and technologies, reflecting a united effort to shape the future of increased inclusive and sustainable connectivity and telecommunications on a global scale.

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GSOA is the only global non-profit association of the entire satellite ecosystem that brings members together and serves as the premier platform for worldwide collaboration. As the only CEO-driven satellite association in the world, GSOA takes the lead in addressing global challenges, seizing opportunities, and providing a unified voice for the satellite industry.
GSOA is widely recognised as the representative body for satellite operators by international, regional, and national entities, including regulators, policymakers, standards-setting organizations like 3GPP, as well as international organizations such as the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) and the World Economic Forum (WEF).

For more details contact GSOA.

The European Space Agency (ESA) provides Europe’s gateway to space.
ESA is an intergovernmental organisation, created in 1975, with the mission to shape the development of Europe’s space capability and ensure that investment in space delivers benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world.
ESA has 22 Member States: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia and Slovenia are Associate Members.
ESA has established formal cooperation with four Member States of the EU. Canada takes part in some ESA programmes under a Cooperation Agreement.
By coordinating the financial and intellectual resources of its members, ESA can undertake programmes and activities far beyond the scope of any single European country. It is working in particular with the EU on implementing the Galileo and Copernicus programmes as well as with Eumetsat for the development of meteorological missions.
Learn more about ESA at www.esa.int.