Wrapping up the MARINA project: Fair method for comparing DVB-S2X and 5G NR
September 24, 2024
In the MARINA project, Magister developed a fair method for comparing DVB-S2X and 5G NR technologies. We also gained important insights into performance differences.
MARINA was an ESA-funded project. Its goal was to compare the performance of DVB-S2x/RCS2 and 5G-NR NTN protocols for broadband satellite services from geostationary (GEO) orbits using FR2 frequency bands. Another goal was to contribute the findings of the project to the ETSI working group’s work in comparing DVB-S2x/RCS2 and 5G-NR NTN systems for broadband satellite communication.
We worked on the MARINA project during the years 2023 and 2024, jointly with Thales Alenia Space France. In May 2024, we completed the project.
Dr. Henrik Martikainen, Principal Scientist at Magister Solutions, gave the final presentation of the project on October 2, 2024. The presentation took place during the ARTES Final Presentations Days in Oxfordshire, the UK.
As part of wrapping up this project, let’s go through some of its key takeaways and findings.
The MARINA project
- MARINA = Multi Access RelatIve performaNce compArison for GSO broadband satellite networks
- Project funded by the ESA
- Duration: June 2023 – May 2024
- Prime contractor: Magister Solutions
- Subcontractor: Thales Alenia Space France
MARINA combined the efforts of our SNS3 and ALIX simulators
We compared the technologies using both qualitative and quantitative analysis. We conducted this comparison through simulative studies at the link and system levels. Our team focused on System Level Simulations (SLS), while Thales Alenia Space France concentrated on Link Level Simulations (LLS).
In MARINA, we combined the efforts of two of our simulators into one project. The system-level simulators we utilized include both ALIX and SNS3.
ALIX is a 5G TN/NTN System Level Simulator. It was mostly developed through ESA’s ALIX project that targeted the successful standardization of NTN in the 3GPP. The simulator is heavily based on 3GPP specifications. For example, it follows TR 38.811 in terms of channel and antenna/beam modelling, and TR 38.821 in terms of system level calibration scenarios.
SNS3 (Satellite Network Simulator 3) is a satellite network extension to the Network Simulator 3 (ns-3) platform. SNS3 models a full interactive multi-spot beam satellite network with a geostationary satellite and a transparent star payload. It has two air interfaces: DVB-S2X on forward link, and DVB-RCS2 on return link.
New insights into performance differences
Through this project, we were able to develop a transparent and fair method for comparing DVB-S2X and 5G NR technologies. We achieved this by using complementary LLS and SLS simulations.
We also gained new insights into the differences in performance. Related to the forward link, the LLS findings indicated that DVB-S2X outperformed 5G NR. This idea was also supported in the SLS findings, especially in fully loaded systems. The performance gaps were smaller in partially loaded conditions.
Regarding the return link, the LLS findings demonstrated that performance varied depending on specific cases. According to the SLS findings, 5G NR showed potential for better or comparable data rates due to the efficient spectrum use and flexibility in BLER targets.
Important findings for standardization and next steps
These findings are crucial information for standardization processes. We will share the challenges we faced, the best practices, and recommendations based on our experiences working on this project.
We are already looking into the future and planning our next steps in relation to, for example, LLS, SLS, and protocol and traffic analysis.
