Nokia will equip next-generation space suits to be worn by astronauts with 4G LTE connectivity. Partnering with Axiom Space, the company will solve a major communication problem during manned missions to the Moon. NASA astronauts on the Artemis III mission will be able to communicate over 4G LTE network on the Moon.
Nokia builds 4G LTE network on the Moon
Through an agreement with Axiom Space, Nokia will integrate its network technology into Axiom Mobility Unit spacesuits, known as AxEMU. This will enable crew members to make voice calls, data transfers and stream high-definition video from the Moon to control centers on Earth.
Network capabilities will be provided by two components developed by Nokia. A “network-in-a-box” unit combining radio, base station and network functions will be used. It will also be supported by device modules integrated into space suits. In this way, a kilometer-long cellular network will be established on the Moon.
Nokia believes that cellular communication is feasible in upcoming space missions. In this context, it is working with NASA to establish the first operational mobile network on the Moon in 2024. Thierry Klein, Nokia’s President of Bell Labs Solutions, stated that communication networks are vital for astronauts.
When astronauts set foot on the Moon in 2026 for the Artemis III mission, they will also have access to a 4G LTE network. Thanks to the cellular connection in their spacesuits, they will be able to transmit vital signs. They will be able to communicate using 4G technology that billions of people on Earth use every day.
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