Keysight Technologies and Sateliot have been awarded the Innovation Challenge of the European Space Agency (ESA) and the GSMA Foundry for their joint project "Blockchain-enabled Anomaly Detection End-to-End Solution for 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks". The award ceremony took place during the Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona. The competition recognizes projects at an early stage of development that contribute to the further development of 6G and non-terrestrial networks (NTN).

The initiative is part of the ESA program "Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems" (ARTES) and the funding line "Space for 5G/6G and Sustainable Connectivity". The aim is to develop and validate technologies that integrate satellite and terrestrial communication systems in accordance with the 3GPP recommendations and thus enable nationwide connectivity.

The award-winning concept combines blockchain technology, artificial intelligence and machine learning with digital calibration certificates. This is intended to ensure end-to-end traceability of calibration processes from satellite production to operation in the network. The approach also aims to increase the autonomy of satellites, maximize uptime and detect and respond to anomalies in real time.

The project addresses key requirements for hybrid network infrastructures by ensuring the integrity of devices and networks and increasing reliability. The aim is to support operators in preparing for the commercial use of non-terrestrial networks.

Antonio Franchi, Head of ESA's Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity program, said: "Through these competitions, ESA aims to advance technologies that will give Europe a competitive advantage. Keysight and Sateliot are proving just that with a solution that addresses a key need for future 5G and 6G networks by boosting confidence in network performance, improving resilience and supporting the smooth integration of satellite and terrestrial systems."

The Innovation Challenge was launched last year and focuses on the convergence of satellite and ground networks. Funding is provided by ESA member states and is intended to strengthen Europe's competitiveness in the field of telecommunications and space.