Interference Analysis of 5G NR Base Stations to Fixed Satellite Service Bent-Pipe Transponders in the 6425–7125 MHz Frequency Band

Abstract

Future deployment of 5G NR base stations in the 6425–7125 MHz band raises numerous concerns over the long-term impact on the satellite transponders located in geostationary orbit. To study this impact and understand whether 5G NR may cause adverse effect to the spaceborne receivers, the research which estimated the interference levels to the satellite bent pipe links was done. The study presents the evaluation of aggregate interference from 5G NR base stations located inside the victim satellites’ footprints using Monte-Carlo analysis and calculation of signal-to-noise degradation and bit error rates of the fixed-satellite service (FSS) bent-pipe transponders for each scenario. The results of the study showed the feasibility of co-existence between 5G NR and satellite systems in the 6425–7125 MHz bands, and that no negative impact on the performance of the satellite links is expected.