Nokia is set to launch a 4G internet network on the Moon later this year ahead of the Artemis 2 mission in 2024. Unlike terrestrial LTE networks, this lunar version needs to consider radiation, weight, electrical discharge and thermal management, as there are no technicians on the Moon who can drop by to fix the equipment if something goes wrong.
To make the components more durable, the LTE network itself will be tightly integrated with the ultra-compact base station mounted on Intuitive Machines’ Nova-C lander, rather than deployed as separate units as typically found in terrestrial networks. Once the equipment lands on the Moon, Nokia’s LTE network will operate for up to 12 days including lunar daylight, thus enabling surface communications between the lander and the rover. That data link allows engineers to control the rover remotely from Earth when it is not operating autonomously, as well as send back a live video feed, telemetry and network measurements collected across its multi-kilometer path.
- Display: Features a 6.52-inch HD+ NXTVISION screen with 720 x 1600 pixel resolution for vivid colors and crisp clarity.
- Camera: Equipped with a 50MP AI triple rear camera system for capturing detailed photos and 8MP front camera for selfies.
- Storage: Comes with 64GB internal memory and supports up to 512GB microSD card for ample space.
Leveraging our rich and successful history in space technologies, from pioneering satellite communication to discovering the cosmic microwave background radiation produced by the Big Bang, we are now building the first ever cellular communications network on the Moon. Reliable, resilient and high-capacity communications networks will be key to supporting sustainable human presence on the lunar surface,” said Marcus Weldon, Chief Technology Officer at Nokia and Nokia Bell Labs President.
