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5G NR Non-Terrestrial Networks: From Early Results to the Road Ahead
Mattia Figaro, Francesco Rossato, Marco Giordani, Alessandro Traspadini, Takayuki Shimizu, Chinmay Mahabal, Sanjeewa Herath, Chunghan Lee, Dogan Kutay Pekcan, Michele Zorzi·January 8, 2026
cs.NIEmerging Tech
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Abstract
This paper overviews the 3GPP 5G NR-NTN standard, detailing the evolution from Rel. 18 to 19 and innovations for Rel. 20. Using realistic ns-3 simulations validated against 3GPP calibration data, we evaluate various satellite network configurations. The results highlight the potential of NTNs to extend wireless connectivity to remote areas, serve requests during emergency, and alleviate terrestrial network congestion.