This note outlines the frequency ranges and channel arrangements used for Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs), as defined in the current release of the 3GPP specifications. These operating bands provide a framework for organizing the communication frequencies to ensure seamless operation of NTN systems, such as satellites, High-Altitude Platforms (HAPS), and other space-based systems.

General Spectrum/Frequency Range

The defined operating bands and channel bandwidths are established for NTN systems within the current release of 3GPP standards. Future releases may add new operating bands or expand bandwidth specifications, making the framework adaptable to evolving NTN technologies and requirements.

Frequency ranges for NTN systems are divided into distinct bands to accommodate different operational requirements, performance needs, and regulatory constraints.

< 38.101-5 - Table 5.1-1: Definition of NTN frequency ranges >

Operating Bands

A few operating bands both for FR1 and FR2 is specified by 3GPP as follows.

NOTE : All the band specified as of now is FDD only, not only for FR1 but also for FR2. This implies that downlink link adaptation based on SRS based on channel reciprocity may not be applicable.

< 38.101-5 - Table 5.2.2-1: NTN satellite bands in FR1-NTN  >

< 38.101-5 - Table 5.2.3-1: Satellite operating bands in FR2-NTN  >

3GPP Reference

• 3GPP 38.101-5 : NR;User UE) radio transmission and reception; Part 5: Satellite access Radio Frequency (RF) and performance requirements

Other References

• Non-terrestrial networks (NTN) - R&S