Live NR-NTN Validation in Band n252

Keysight Technologies has demonstrated an end-to-end live new radio non-terrestrial network (NR-NTN) connection in band n252 using a next-generation modem chipset from Samsung Electronics. Shown at CES 2026, the demonstration validates satellite-to-satellite (SAT-to-SAT) mobility with commercial-grade silicon and cross-vendor interoperability, marking a concrete step toward scalable direct-to-cell satellite communications.

Why band n252 matters for NR-NTN
Band n252 is newly specified under Release 19 of 3GPP and is expected to be adopted by future low Earth orbit (LEO) constellations. Public, end-to-end validation of n252 in a live NTN system is significant because it confirms that the band can support mobility, routing, and user traffic under realistic conditions—key prerequisites for commercial deployment.

With this milestone, all major NR-NTN FR1 bands—n252, n255, and n256—have now been validated end-to-end. That completeness enables modem vendors, satellite operators, and device makers to evaluate cross-band behavior, handover performance, and spectrum strategy holistically as services move toward commercialization.

End-to-end mobility with commercial silicon
The demonstration achieved live SAT-to-SAT mobility while running user applications across the NTN link. This validates not only radio access but also end-to-end routing and session continuity as devices move between satellites—an essential capability for continuous coverage in LEO systems.

Using commercial modem silicon (rather than lab-only hardware) reduces risk for ecosystem partners by proving that standards-based implementations can meet performance and interoperability requirements on production-ready platforms.

High-fidelity NTN test environment
Keysight’s NTN Network Emulator Solutions recreated realistic multi-orbit LEO conditions, including Doppler, latency, handover dynamics, and SAT-to-SAT mobility. Coupled with Samsung’s chipset, the setup verified link performance, mobility robustness, and multi-vendor interoperability against Release 19 specifications.

This approach shortens development cycles by allowing operators and manufacturers to test real applications and conformance early, lowering integration risk and accelerating time-to-market for NR-NTN services anticipated to scale from 2026.

Implications for direct-to-cell deployment
Reliable global connectivity for consumers, vehicles, IoT devices, and critical communications increasingly depends on NTN. The n252 validation demonstrates readiness for next-generation LEO deployments and provides the industry with a practical benchmark for standards compliance, mobility handling, and cross-vendor operation—foundational elements for broad, commercial direct-to-cell coverage.