SoftBank Proposes Optical Wireless Communication for NTN Realization: Leveraging Intersatellite, GEO, and HAPS Links

August 2, 2026

SoftBank Japan

Overview

SoftBank has published an article exploring the crucial role of optical wireless communication in realizing Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) and the potential of an innovative architecture combining LEO satellites, GEO satellites, and High-Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS). The company highlights the challenge of LEO satellites’ reliance on fixed ground gateways despite intersatellite optical links and proposes a solution to secure primary communication paths outside the atmosphere.

In Depth

Key Findings

SoftBank has published an article focusing on the pivotal role of optical wireless communication in its roadmap towards realizing Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN). The company points out a current challenge where, despite low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites being interconnected with intersatellite optical links (ISL), communication with the ground remains dependent on fixed gateway locations. To address this, SoftBank proposes an innovative architecture that combines optical links between LEO satellites and geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) satellites, further leveraging High-Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS). This strategy aims to secure primary communication pathways outside the atmosphere, providing truly flexible global connectivity.

Technical Details

Free-space optical (FSO) communication offers significantly higher bandwidth, lower latency, and enhanced security compared to radio frequency (RF) communication. While LEO intersatellite links (ISL) already enable terabit-scale data transmission, SoftBank’s proposal extends this further. Specifically, optical links between LEO and GEO satellites ensure continuous connectivity to ground gateways, even when LEO constellations are on the opposite side of the Earth. Additionally, optical links with HAPS (stratospheric drones or balloons) provide focused coverage to specific regions, complementing the risk of temporary disruptions in LEO-to-ground communications. This three-layered communication architecture aims to deliver uninterrupted, ultra-high-speed broadband connectivity to every location on Earth.

Background & Context

Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) hold the promise of bridging the global digital divide by providing high-speed internet access to every location on Earth, especially remote land and sea areas, as well as to aircraft and vessels. With the emergence of LEO constellation operators like Starlink, Amazon Leo, and OneWeb, space-based broadband services are becoming a reality. However, achieving truly universal and robust connectivity requires further technological innovation. The deep involvement of telecommunication providers like SoftBank is crucial for integrating space communication technologies into mainstream communication infrastructure.

Strategic Significance & Outlook

SoftBank’s proposed NTN architecture, leveraging optical wireless communication, could serve as a blueprint for the next generation of global communication infrastructure. If realized, this technology would accelerate the deployment of 5G/6G networks and drive innovation across various industrial sectors, including the proliferation of IoT devices, advancements in autonomous driving technology, and the evolution of telemedicine. The low-latency, high-capacity data transmission capabilities are particularly poised to create new business models utilizing AI and cloud services from space. This approach represents a significant step towards building a seamless communication environment where space and Earth are fully integrated.

Source: https://www.softbank.jp/en/corp/technology/research/topics/226/

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