Nokia and Axiom Space: Bringing 4G Connectivity to the Moon

In a groundbreaking development for space exploration, Nokia and Axiom Space are collaborating to bring 4G/LTE connectivity to the moon. This initiative is part of NASA’s Artemis III mission, which aims to establish a sustainable human presence on the lunar surface by the end of the decade. The decision to use 4G technology, as opposed to traditional radio and Wi-Fi communications, marks a significant leap in the capabilities available to astronauts. Thierry Klein, President of Nokia Bell Labs, emphasized that this would be the first deployment of 4G/LTE technology in space, highlighting its importance for future missions not only to the moon but also to Mars.

NASA’s Artemis III mission aims to be more cost-effective than previous missions, such as Apollo, by leveraging off-the-shelf technology. To support this endeavor, NASA has allocated an additional $57.5 million to the suit task order for contractor Axiom Space. This funding will be used to integrate Nokia’s advanced communication systems into the next-generation spacesuits, known as the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AXEMU). These suits will be worn by astronauts during their lunar explorations, allowing them to communicate with mission controllers back on Earth in real-time.

The collaboration between Nokia and Axiom Space extends beyond just the spacesuits. Nokia has developed a ‘network in a box’ that will be tested on Intuitive Machines’ uncrewed lunar mission. This system will facilitate communication between the lunar outpost’s rover and IM’s hopper. The results of this test will inform the final design of the network to be used during the Artemis III mission. Despite tight deadlines, there are currently no plans for further in-space testing, making this initial trial crucial for the mission’s success.

One of the key advantages of using 4G/LTE technology over traditional radio and Wi-Fi is its higher bandwidth capabilities and wider range. This makes it suitable for multiple devices and ensures clearer and faster communication. The 4G network will enable astronauts to send real-time HD video, voice communications, and data telemetry across several kilometers on the moon. This level of connectivity is essential for the success of the mission, as it allows for seamless communication between astronauts and ground controllers.

The integration of 4G technology into the AXEMU spacesuits represents a significant advancement in space suit design. These suits have already undergone tests, including simulations of entering and exiting SpaceX’s Starship human landing system for moonwalks. The Lunar Surface Communications System (LSCS) developed by Nokia Bell Labs will be adapted for use in these suits. This system is designed to withstand the harsh lunar environment and the stresses of spaceflight, while being optimized for size, weight, and power consumption.

Nokia’s involvement in space projects is not new. The company has a long history of working on space technologies and is a leader in designing and building networks for Earth. By leveraging the same technologies used for connecting billions of devices on Earth, Nokia aims to solve the challenges of space communication. The company’s expertise in this field was recognized by NASA in 2020 when it was selected to develop the first cellular network on the moon using LTE technology.

The deployment of a 4G network on the moon is not just about improving communication; it is also about ensuring the safety and efficiency of lunar operations. High-speed communication will be crucial for data transmission, remote control of lunar rovers, real-time navigation, and streaming of HD video. These applications are vital for long-term human presence on the lunar surface, as they enable astronauts to perform their tasks effectively and safely.

In addition to the technological advancements, the Artemis III mission also includes a focus on sustainability. NASA plans to utilize these innovations to establish sustainable operations on the moon by the end of the decade, in preparation for an expedition to Mars in the 2030s. The collaboration between Nokia and Axiom Space is a key component of this strategy, as it provides the necessary infrastructure for long-term human presence on the moon.

The AXEMU spacesuits, equipped with 4G connectivity, will allow astronauts to capture real-time video and communicate with mission controllers back on Earth while exploring the lunar surface. This capability serves as a vital bridge between astronauts and Earth, ensuring that they can receive immediate support and guidance during their missions. Russell Ralston, Axiom Space executive vice president of extravehicular activity, highlighted the importance of this capability for the success of the Artemis III mission.

As space agencies around the world race to discover the secrets of the universe, the need for advanced and resilient communication equipment cannot be understated. The collaboration between Nokia and Axiom Space is a testament to the importance of connectivity and communication for future human presence on the moon and Mars. Thierry Klein emphasized that just as astronauts need life support and shelter, they also need advanced networks to communicate and complete their work.

The upcoming Intuitive Machines’ IM-2 mission in 2024 will serve as a crucial test for Nokia’s cellular network on the moon. This mission aims to demonstrate the ability of cellular connectivity to support vital communications during future lunar or Mars missions. The Lunar Surface Communications System (LSCS) developed by Nokia Bell Labs will be deployed during IM-2 and adapted for use in the AXEMU spacesuit. The success of this mission will pave the way for the deployment of 4G technology in the Artemis III mission.

In conclusion, the partnership between Nokia and Axiom Space represents a significant milestone in the field of space exploration. By bringing 4G/LTE connectivity to the moon, they are not only enhancing the capabilities of astronauts but also laying the groundwork for future missions to Mars. The integration of advanced communication systems into the AXEMU spacesuits will enable real-time video and voice transmission, data telemetry, and remote control of lunar rovers. This level of connectivity is essential for the success of the Artemis III mission and the long-term human presence on the lunar surface. As we look to the future, the collaboration between Nokia and Axiom Space will continue to play a crucial role in advancing space technology and exploration.