On Monday 8th July, our Digital Infrastructure team had the opportunity to explore the European Space Agency’s (ESA) 5G/6G Hub, located at the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus.
This cutting-edge research and demonstration centre is dedicated to promoting industry partnerships, driving forward the digital revolution in 5G, and laying the groundwork for 6G innovation. The facility is equipped with the latest technology, enabling researchers and engineers to experiment with and evaluate the advantages of integrated 5G and satellite communication networks.
Our 5G Innovation Region, England’s Connected Heartland, plans to deploy a 5G Mobile Private Network at the Harwell Campus – which will support ESA and other businesses operating there.
The day began with a warm welcome from the ESA team, followed by a meeting about our ambitions for the Harwell project, and then a tour. Our tour included entering three distinct rooms, each showcasing innovative applications in medical, environmental, and space sectors.
Medical Room: Transforming Healthcare
The first stop was the medical room, where we witnessed how 5G and 6G technologies can transform healthcare delivery. With ultra-low latency and high-speed connectivity, these technologies enable real-time remote surgeries and telemedicine consultations. We saw a 360-degree camera that can be used for a variety of purposes, and also a small tube-shaped camera specifically designed for dermatology. This experience highlighted how future medical practices can become more efficient and accessible, especially in remote areas.
Environment Room: Enhancing Environmental Monitoring
Next, we entered the environment room, which showcased advanced environmental monitoring solutions. Using AR headsets, we were able to pinch and grab an image of the earth, and learned how real-time data from various sensors can monitor air quality, water levels, and traffic patterns. This integration of technology provides a comprehensive overview, enabling quicker responses to environmental challenges. The potential for such technology is immense, offering a smarter, more sustainable future for communities.
Moon and Mars Room: Expanding Frontiers
Our final stop was the space room, where we explored how 5G and 6G technologies support satellite communications. Through VR headsets, how these networks facilitate data transmission between Earth and space stations. This room underscored the importance of robust communication networks in advancing space exploration and ensuring the safety and success of missions.
Believe it or not, that wasn’t all. On this visit, we also used the AR headsets to view (and step inside!) ESA’s shuttle bus for the Harwell campus.
Conclusion
The visit to ESA at Harwell was not just an educational experience but an eye-opener to the transformative power of 5G and 6G technologies. As we prepare to begin our Harwell project for England’s Connected Heartland, these insights were invaluable in understanding the cutting-edge research and applications that our new network will support.
Gallery:
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- Digital Infrastructure and England’s Connected Heartland team with European Space Agency (ESA) team members standing outside of the building next to the flags
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- Guy Middleton from the England’s Connected Heartland team trying on the VR headset
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- Digital Infrastructure and England’s Connected Heartland team members in the Environment room
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- Craig Bower, Connectivity Director of the Digital Infrastructure and England’s Connected Heartland teams trying out the VR headset
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- Digital Infrastructure and England’s Connected Heartland team with European Space Agency (ESA) team members in the Moon and Mars Room
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- Mark Hopping of the Digital Infrastructure team trying out the VR headset
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- Digital Infrastructure and England’s Connected Heartland team members with space suit in the Moon and Mars Room
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- Digital Infrastructure and England’s Connected Heartland team members in the Environment room
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- Digital Infrastructure and England’s Connected Heartland team members in the Environment room
Visit the website to find out more about England’s Connected Heartland: https://englandsconnectedheartland.co.uk/
