NASA and Nokia Unveil the Moon’s First Mobile Network with Intuitive Machines
The lunar mobile network, a project by Intuitive Machines, will shortly be launched, becoming the first-ever cellular network on the Moon’s surface. This historic step is a significant milestone in space travel, as it will enable high-definition video streaming, data exchange, and communication between lunar vehicles and landers. The network will be built upon Nokia’s cellular technology, used on Earth, and will be resistant to the harsh conditions on the Moon, including intense radiation, extreme heat, and intense launching and landing shock and vibrations.
Lunar Mobility Vehicles to Connect to NASA’s Mobile Network
As part of the mission, two lunar mobility vehicles—the Intuitive Machines Micro-Nova Hopper and the Lunar Outpost’s Mobile Autonomous Prospecting Platform (MAPP) rover—will be sent to use this network. These vehicles will be equipped with Nokia’s device modules, allowing them to connect to the established network of the Athena lander. Although the network is only expected to last for a few days due to the lunar night, this technology is paving the way for future lunar missions.
Nokia Network Marks a Milestone for NASA’s Artemis Program and Lunar Presence
The successful deployment of the mobile network marks a key milestone for NASA’s Artemis program, aiming to return humans to the Moon by 2027. Nokia plans to expand this network to support sustainable lunar presence, potentially integrating cell communication into spacesuits. Initially, the network will be limited, but could grow alongside lunar settlements and the economy.
NASA to Deploy Lunar Mobile Network and PRIME-1 Experiment for Moon Missions
In addition to the mobile network deployment, NASA will also perform the Polar Resources Ice Mining Experiment 1 (PRIME-1), which will study regolith from the surface of the Moon using a mass spectrometer. The experiment is a crucial component of learning about the resources of the Moon and how they can be used in support of future missions.
Concerns Over Frequency Interference and Lunar Communication Advancements
The network will use frequencies that overlap with the radio spectrum allocated to radio astronomy, raising concerns about interference and regulatory matters. Nokia was granted a special waiver for the IM-2 mission, but the company recognizes the need for an alternative frequency band to support long-term deployment. Klein emphasized that Nokia is already exploring several candidate frequencies for future deployment.
A New Frontier in Space Exploration
As humans venture onto the Moon more frequently, technologies like this cell network could become crucial in determining the future of space exploration. With the Moon serving as a stepping stone for humans to venture into Mars and beyond, the Moon’s first mobile network marks a significant step forward in the journey to the stars.
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