The rise of 3D wireless networks is transforming connectivity beyond traditional ground-based cellular systems. By integrating terrestrial infrastructure with drones, satellites, and high-altitude platform stations (HAPS), future wireless networks will provide seamless coverage across land, air, and sea. 
This evolution is closely linked to the emergence of hybrid non-terrestrial and cellular 5G/6G architectures that jointly support communication services and PNT (Positioning, Navigation and Timing). These networks are enabling efficient communication in fully three-dimensional environments while improving coverage, resilience, and spectral efficiency. 

A major recent milestone is the recent launch by ESA of the first Celeste low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. LEO satellite systems provide important advantages for both communication and PNT applications, including lower latency, greater robustness against spoofing and jamming, and a higher positioning accuracy with much faster signal acquisition. 
As 6G research accelerates, 3D wireless connectivity is expected to become a cornerstone of next-generation communication systems, enabling ubiquitous, resilient, and high-capacity networks for an increasingly connected world. 

The convergence of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks opens up significant opportunities for new and emerging applications, such as autonomous mobility, massive remote industrial automation, disaster-resilient communications and large-scale IoT deployments. 

This workshop will feature:

  • a tutorial on 3D wireless networks
  • insights into hybrid non-terrestrial and 5/6G networks
  • low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites and their advantages for positioning, navigation and timing (PNT)
  • emerging applications enabled by 3D connectivity

The workshop will include 

presentations

 and 

live demonstrations

 of recent innovations, together with excellent 

networking opportunities

 for researchers, industry experts, and policymakers. 

This workshop is organised in collaboration with the project partners of the 

5/6G NTN HUB Belgium

TENTATIVE PROGRAMME

11h45Registration & lunch
12h45Introduction
Kris Hermus, Coordinator Wireless Community & Innovation Program Manager Flanders, imec
13h00

The rise of 3D wireless connectivity – Joint communication and navigation through hybrid cellular and non-terrestrial networks
Thomas Janssen, Senior Researcher, imec-IDLab-UAntwerp


This presentation provides an overview of how Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) and Low Earth Orbit Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (LEO-PNT) systems can enhance and complement existing Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). It discusses key GNSS limitations, including limited accuracy, weak signal availability, multipath effects, and vulnerability to jamming and spoofing—and explains how emerging LEO satellite constellations and 5G/6G NTN technologies can improve positioning performance, resilience, and global connectivity. The presentation also highlights current LEO-PNT approaches, future research directions, and the growing importance of secure and integrated satellite-based navigation systems for next-generation applications.

13h30

How low earth orbit (LEO) satellites are revolutionizing positioning and timing
Sibren De Bast, DSP Innovation Engineer, Septentrio


Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites are set to redefine positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT). Operating much closer to Earth than traditional systems such as Galileo and GPS, LEO constellations can deliver higher signal power, greater robustness against spoofing and jamming, reduced multipath, and faster precise point positioning (PPP) convergence.
This creates opportunities for resilient navigation and precise timing in existing and emerging applications.
This presentation first reviews the state of the art in satellite-based positioning and explores how LEO-based PNT complements existing GNSS infrastructure and drives technological innovation at Septentrio. Finally, we present tracking results from live LEO-PNT systems such as Xona Pulsar and ESA Celeste.
 

14h00COFFEE BREAK
14h15

Operationalizing non-terrestrial networks in 5G-Advanced and 6G networks
Miguel Camelo Botero, Senior Researcher, imec-IDLab-UAntwerp


Abstract will follow

14h45

The opportunities of 3D wireless networks for telecom operators
Erik Van Lierde, IoT & 5G Innovator & 5G Lab Manager, Orange


Abstract will follow
 

15h00COFFEE BREAK
15h30DEMO TOUR
 
  • Demo 1 – imec-IDLab-UAntwerp:
    a configurable NTN simulator for PNT performance analysis
  • Demo 2 – nxgsat: 
    5GNR NTN interoperable broadband satellite communications modem and User Terminals
  • Demo 3 – neXat: 
    cloud-based and fully virtualized OSS/BSS platform designed to support next-generation satellite and future NTN connectivity services
  • Demo 4 – Seafar:
    VR headset experience of the Seafar Remote Operation Center at Seafar HQ in 360° videos
  • Demo 5 – Firecell / Accelleran:
    …
  • More demos will be added soon:
     
16h30

Use cases for hybrid 5/6G and non-terrestrial networks
Testimonials by different local companies


Abstract will follow

16h50Panel Debate: possibilities of 3D wireless networks for Flanders
17h15Networking reception & free demo visit
19h00End of the workshop

Registration

Registration-fees:

  • Imec employees and residents: free of charge
  • Employees of Wireless Community members: free of charge
  • Partners of the 5/6G NTN Hub Belgium: free of charge
  • Others:
    • 125 EUR (excl VAT) early bird until June 10
    • 150 EUR (excl VAT) late registration from June 11

Please fill in your details in this Event Registration Form below and you will be automatically registered. A few days prior to the event you will receive a confirmation email with all practical details.

For all practical questions about this workshop, please contact us at wireless-community@imec.be