This research proposes a novel 6G network planning framework that integrates Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites (NTNs) with Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RISs) to deliver high-capacity, interference-managed, and reliable connectivity in high-density environments like stadiums.
Let's make complex engineering simple and fun! Today, we dive into a futuristic solution straight from the labs of researchers in Ecuador and Luxembourg. Imagine a packed stadium—tens of thousands cheering, uploading selfies, live-streaming concerts—and the mobile network… doesn’t crash.
That’s the power of combining Beyond 5G (B5G) tech with satellites (NTNs) and smart reflective panels (RISs). Let’s explore how this dynamic trio can handle the connectivity chaos at massive events.
We’ve all experienced it. You’re at a concert or football match, and your phone says “4G” but refuses to load anything. That’s because traditional Terrestrial Networks (TNs)—like your mobile operator’s towers—get overwhelmed in high-density environments like stadiums.
Problem: Too many users, not enough signal to go around. TNs alone can’t cope.
This research presents a new framework for 6G network planning that combines:
Combined with existing 5G infrastructure, they create a hybrid system that ensures reliable, high-capacity connectivity, even in the busiest environments.
Let’s break it down:
The Olympic Stadium in Quito, Ecuador (35,800 capacity) served as the test case.
When your phone moves, the system hands you over seamlessly from RIS to satellite and back, avoiding service drops.
A clever formula (Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio) constantly optimizes signal quality in real time—even as thousands of users move around.
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| LEO Satellites | Cover large areas with moving beams |
| RIS Panels | Reflect signals around obstacles |
| Base Stations | Send signals directly to users |
| UEs (User Equipment) | Phones, VR devices, etc. |
| Frequencies Used | 2 GHz (S-band), 3.5 GHz (C-band), 20 GHz (Ka-band) |
| Tools Used | MATLAB & WinProp simulations |
Peak downlink speed:
The dynamic SINR model distinguishes between:
Result: cleaner, faster signal!
Delays remain under acceptable thresholds, even for live video and gaming use cases.
These innovations aren’t just for stadiums! Here’s where they could shine:
Here’s what’s next according to the researchers:
| Problem | Too many users at big events = network crash |
|---|---|
| Solution | Combine NTN (satellites) + RIS (smart reflectors) |
| Benefit | High-speed, reliable, low-latency internet for all |
| Tools | 6G planning, SINR modeling, LEO satellites, RIS panels |
| Tested In | Quito’s Olympic Stadium with 35,800 people |
| Result | Seamless coverage, 10 Gbps capacity, fewer base stations |
This study is a huge leap forward for the future of mobile networks. With 6G just around the corner, blending space tech with smart surfaces is how we’ll stay online when it matters most—whether it's the World Cup, a natural disaster, or a bustling city of the future.
Stay curious, stay connected to EngiSphere. See you tomorrow for another engineering breakthrough!
Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) - Satellites or flying platforms (like drones or balloons) that send mobile signals from the sky instead of using ground towers. Think of it as internet from outer space!
Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface (RIS) - Smart panels placed on buildings that bounce and steer wireless signals to improve coverage—like mirrors for internet waves! - More about this concept in the article "All Aboard the Future! How 6G Will Supercharge Smart Railways with Speed, Safety & Smarts".
SINR (Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio) - A fancy way to measure how clean your signal is compared to all the background noise and interference—higher means better connection! - More about this concept in the article "Explaining the Power of AI in 6G Networks: How Large Language Models Can Cut Through Interference".
B5G (Beyond 5G) - An advanced version of 5G, with faster speeds, better coverage, and tech that sets the stage for 6G networks. - More about this concept in the article "Breaking Boundaries in Wireless Networks: The SANDWICH Model for Ray-Tracing Revolution".
6G (Sixth Generation Wireless) - The upcoming generation of mobile internet—super fast, ultra reliable, and designed for things like holograms, smart cities, and flying cars. - More about this concept in the article "Building a Smarter Wireless Future: How Transformers Revolutionize 6G Radio Technology".
LEO Satellite (Low Earth Orbit) - A satellite flying close to Earth (around 600–1500 km up) that delivers fast, low-latency internet from above.
Base Station (BS) - A regular ground-based tower that sends mobile signals to your phone or device—part of the current mobile network.
UE (User Equipment) - Any device you use to connect to the network—like a smartphone, tablet, or VR headset.
Link Budget - An engineering calculation to figure out if your device can "hear" the signal strongly enough from the satellite or base station.
High-Density Environment - Places packed with people—like stadiums, concerts, or city centers—where mobile networks often struggle.
Valdemar Farré, Juan Estrada, David Vega, Luis F Urquiza-Aguiar, Juan A. Vásquez Peralvo, Symeon Chatzinotas. Dynamic Beyond 5G and 6G Connectivity: Leveraging NTN and RIS Synergies for Optimized Coverage and Capacity in High-Density Environments. https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2506.10900
From: Escuela Politécnica Nacional (EPN); Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology; Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ); University of Luxembourg.
