We interview Arnau Singla, a researcher in the Space Communications Group at the i2CAT research center and a member of the 6GDIFERENTE project team.

 

Space communications will play a fundamental role in the development of 6G, as they will enable the integration of non-terrestrial networks (NTN) with terrestrial networks, offering truly global and ubiquitous connectivity. This convergence will facilitate the provision of high-speed, low-latency, and highly resilient services in areas where traditional networks do not reach, such as rural, maritime, aerial, and remote regions. We spoke with Arnau Singla about this new communications paradigm and his role within the 6GDIFERENTE project.

 

  • Can you briefly explain your professional background and your current role at i2CAT?

I graduated in Aerospace Engineering and hold a master’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering. My professional career began in a technical consultancy, and a little over three years ago, I joined i2CAT as a researcher in the Space Communications Research Group. Since then, I have worked on a research line focused on the efficient operation of convergent and non-terrestrial networks, which has evolved into the PhD I am about to complete.

Over the years, I have participated in multiple research projects related to non-terrestrial networks and satellite network operations. Currently, I serve as the principal investigator in the research line on NTN operations while also pursuing my PhD. Additionally, I coordinate and participate in various projects, such as 6GDIFERENTE, and collaborate in drafting proposals for competitive projects, including European-level initiatives.

 

  • What is your role in the Cervera 6GDIFERENTE project?

My main role in the project is the development of non-terrestrial network infrastructure at i2CAT. Specifically, I work on deploying NTN testbeds, both in IP simulation and with radio frequency, using Software Defined Radios (SDRs) and channel emulators. This includes hardware acquisition and programming, conducting tests, and preparing the use case related to NTN mobility.

Additionally, I am part of i2CAT’s coordination team within the consortium and lead the management of several work packages focused on architecture and the development of new technologies, including artificial intelligence, the cloud-edge continuum paradigm, and non-terrestrial networks.

 

  • What role will space communications play in the development of 6G, and what opportunities will they bring in this new telecommunications paradigm?

Space communications will play a fundamental role in the development of 6G, as they will enable the integration of non-terrestrial networks (NTN) with terrestrial networks, offering truly global and ubiquitous connectivity. This convergence will facilitate the provision of high-speed, low-latency, and highly resilient services in areas where traditional networks do not reach, such as rural, maritime, aerial, and remote regions.

 

  • What use cases is i2CAT developing within 6GDIFERENTE, and what results are expected?

i2CAT is participating in two of the three use cases proposed for the 6GDIFERENTE project.

The Social XR use case: Virtual social events in future networks explores how Extended Reality (XR) and 6G networks will enable immersive experiences in events such as concerts or theater performances, allowing natural social interaction at a distance. Within 6GDIFERENTE, research will focus on solutions such as mobile volumetric video capture, edge-cloud continuum processing, and adaptive networks, making this use case a key testbed for 6G technologies.

Specifically, i2CAT is contributing to this use case by developing the Social XR component, allowing geographically distributed users to be captured in 3D in real time and holoported into a shared virtual environment where they can enjoy social activities, such as an immersive concert. i2CAT is also focusing on Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) APIs and enablers that optimize holographic communication services through two key mechanisms. First, adaptive data rate adjustments are implemented based on detected congestion or potential drops in quality of service (QoS), ensuring a seamless experience. Additionally, the selection of the most suitable edge server for executing multimedia functions and managing communications is optimized, improving performance and reducing latency.

The second use case focuses on mobility continuity between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks in scenarios such as areas affected by natural disasters. This use case addresses the resilience of communications in emergency situations where terrestrial infrastructure may be compromised. To ensure connectivity for rescue teams, a solution based on non-terrestrial networks (NTN) is proposed to provide mobility continuity. Through a federated testbed between Gradiant and i2CAT, a system will be tested in which a rescue vehicle switches between the terrestrial network and the NTN depending on coverage availability, ensuring access to critical services such as location tracking, coordination, and communication with the control center. Specifically, i2CAT is leading the deployment of non-terrestrial infrastructure through a simulated testbed based on OpenAirInterface (OAI), enabling the evaluation of NTN connectivity and performance in emergency scenarios. Furthermore, i2CAT is developing the server-side application for location and communication, which emulates the operations center for emergency response teams.

 

  • What is the expected impact of next-generation networks on our society?

Next-generation networks will transform our society by offering faster, more reliable, and global connectivity. This will help bridge the digital divide by providing internet access to remote areas, boost automation in industry and autonomous transportation, and revolutionize healthcare with advanced telemedicine, among other applications. Immersive experiences in education and entertainment will emerge, network efficiency will improve sustainability, and key sectors will undergo digitalization, making our lives more connected, intelligent, and sustainable.