Cellular Satellite Backhaul
Cellular satellite backhaul connects base stations to the mobile core when fiber, microwave, or wireline transport isn't available. It is the workhorse behind cellular coverage in remote islands, mountain communities, energy fields, and disaster-recovery sites.
How it works
A satellite terminal at the tower carries S1/N2/N3 traffic over GEO or LEO links to a teleport, where it joins the operator's transport network and reaches the EPC or 5G core. Modern QoS, header compression, and PEP optimizations keep voice and signalling responsive even on GEO links.
GEO vs LEO for cellular backhaul
GEO: Higher capacity per beam, mature ecosystem, ~600 ms RTT — fine for data and voice with PEP, manageable for most 4G workloads.
LEO: 30–60 ms RTT enables snappier 5G control-plane behavior and real-time apps; capacity scales as constellations grow.
Typical use cases
Macro-tower extension into unserved geographies, temporary cell-on-wheels deployments, private LTE/5G at mines and ports, and rural USF/BEAD-funded coverage expansion.
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Related resources
Looking for a personal or field-team connection instead of telecom infrastructure? See our guide to hybrid 4G + satellite links for end users.