2018.07 ~ 2020.12

Ministry of Science and ICT, Institute of Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation, Development of SoC for 5G Satellite Communications

We have developed a 5G NTN(Non-Terrestrial Modem) modem which fulfills the 3GPP 5G specification and enables satellite communication. NTN specification has remained as an SI (Study Item) as of December 2020 and prominent technologies with likelihood of final selection in the SI were developed and mounted in the modem SoC under the 3GPP 5G NR specification standards. Furthermore, the final 5G NTN modem also includes the existing Thuraya satellite communication specifications of GMRT-1 2G, 3G, and TETRA/TEDS modem IP so it can be used throughout all devices provided by the company.

2021.04 ~ 2023.12

Ministry of Science and ICT, Institute of Information & Communications Technology Planning &Evaluation, Development of Satellite Communication Terminal Modem based on 3GPP NTN Specification

In Beyond 5G era, 3GPP, the most prominent standardization organization is leading the movement to integrate the terrestrialnetwork and non-terrestrial network into 3GPP specification-based communication system. In order to reflect such needs in advance, our company is going to improve the existing 5G NTN modem and develop the 5G NR modem to launch an integrated modem. It will be the world’s first modem supporting terrestrial and non-terrestrial mobile communications.

2021.04 ~ 2025.12

Ministry of Science and ICT, Institute of Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation, Coordination project - 3D space network technology development Subproject 1- 3D satellite communication technology development, Subproject 2- 3D space mobile communication technology development

6G communication technology evolved from 5G technology will expand into 3D space, and it will be evolved in a direction to integrate terrestrial and non-terrestrial mobile communication. Our company intends to develop a modem suitable for improved requirements of 6G based on the modem technology accumulated in 5G and B5G eras. We will follow the global technology roadmap trend but strive to secure next-generation technology through advanced technology development ahead of others.

2021.06 ~ 2026.12

Ministry of Science and ICT, 200mN-Class PPS development

AP Satellite is executing the ‘200mN Class High-thrust Plasma Propulsion System Development” R&D project as a part of the Space Pioneer Program of the Ministry of Science and ICT. Plasma Propulsion System (PPS) is an efficient system which can reduce satellite launch mass, increase payload capacity, and reduce launch cost compared to the chemical propulsion system. Korea is planning for next generation GEO satellites, lunar lander, asteroid sample return shuttle, etc. and in order to successfully execute such missions, a high electrical propulsion technology with high thrust force and low fuel consumption is required. 200mN-class PPS developed by AP Satellite consists of a hall thruster, power processing unit (PPU), xenon feed system (XFS), and fuel tank. AP Satellite will establish the foundation for national aerospace industry’s propulsion system by successfully developing a high-thrust PPS in partnership with Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), and Korea Aerospace University (KAU).