Connecting Space and Earth: The Future of Non-Terrestrial Networks
Hosted by IET Bristol
About
Satellite communications are undergoing a fundamental transformation. What was once largely a specialist technology for broadcasting, navigation and remote connectivity is becoming an integral part of the future communications ecosystem. The emergence of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), together with advances in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations, electronically steerable antennas and 5G Advanced and 6G architectures, is creating new possibilities for seamless connectivity across land, air and sea.
This lecture will explore how NTN is bringing together terrestrial networks and space-based infrastructure, and how Comms on the Move (COTM) is enabling connectivity for aircraft, ships, trains, vehicles and other moving platforms. It will look at the engineering challenges behind these systems, including antenna technology, satellite handovers, Doppler effects, spectrum coexistence, link management and the difficulties of testing and validating systems that operate in highly dynamic environments.
The discussion will also consider the wider implications for the UK: the importance of standards and regulation, resilient communications, sovereign capability, skills, and trusted supply chains. Looking towards 5G Advanced and 6G, the central question is whether we are moving towards a future where users no longer need to know whether their connection comes from a terrestrial network or a satellite—and what engineering, regulatory and commercial challenges must be overcome to make that vision a reality.
Learn more about the Satellite Applications Catapult: https://sa.catapult.org.uk/
Connect to Harvinder via https://www.linkedin.com/in/harvinder-nagi-mba-meng-ceng-smieee-8562367/
2
Continuing Professional Development
This event can contribute towards your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours as part of the IET's CPD monitoring scheme.
14 Oct 2026
6:30pm - 8:30pm
Organiser
- Bristol Local Network
Speakers
Harvinder Nagi
CEng, IntPE, Senior Member IEEE, MBA, MEng (Hons) - IET Co-Chair Satellite Technical Network
Harvinder Singh Nagi is a senior technology leader and recognised authority in satellite communications, Space Domain Awareness (SDA), defence, and advanced wireless systems. He currently serves as Senior Systems Architect – Future Networks and Interim Head of Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) within the CTO Office at the Satellite Applications Catapult, leading strategic initiatives in Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), resilient connectivity, satellite-enabled PNT, high-speed broadband, and communications-on-the-move (COTM) test facilities.
With over 30 years of experience across space, defence, and telecommunications, Harvinder has delivered critical contributions to major international programmes involving Airbus, Leonardo, MBDA, OneWeb, Eutelsat, Teledyne, and ESA (programs include (but not limited to) ARTES, ASCAT, and Inmarsat). Previously, as Head of Engineering, he directed millimetre-wave defence and Satcom payload equipment, including Q/V/W-band phased arrays for an ESA deep-space mission. He also founded a product development business serving the aerospace, defence, telecom, and medical sectors.
A strong advocate for the Space solar, Lunar Economy and space sustainability/circular economy, Harvinder also serves as Vice-Chair of the IET Satellite Technical Network and leads university collaboration schemes to commercialise breakthrough technologies. He holds an MEng from Birmingham and an MBA from Bradford.
Reasons to attend
Come and learn about cutting-edge technologies, have some free refreshments, and network with local engineers if you wish.
Programme
Arrival, Networking and Refreshments: 18.30
Presentation: 19:00 – 20:00
Networking: 20:00 - 20:30