NASA has selected Nokia to build the 4G network on the moon. (Image Credit: NASA)
NASA has chosen Nokia to build the first 4G network on the moon. The Finnish telecommunications firm said its Bell Labs division is lending its technology to the US space agency to help construct and deploy the network on the moon, expected to launch in late 2022. Nokia received a grant of $14.1 million for this project. Additionally, the space administration awarded $370 million to 14 firms to deploy innovations on the moon, including cryogenic freezing, remote power generation, safer landing, and 4G. The Artemis program involves sending astronauts to the moon by 2024, following its 2028 goal of sustaining a human presence on the lunar surface.
NASA selected SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Dynetics to construct the landers, which sends astronauts to the moon. The 4G network allows astronauts to make video and voice calls, deploy robotic and sensor payloads, and transfer telemetry and biometric data. This network provides more reliable, longer-distance communication than the radio standards on the moon. It plans on upgrading the 4G network to 5G.
Nokia’s lunar network comprises of an LTE Base Station with integrated Evolved Packet Core functionalities, LTE User Equipment, RF antennas, and reliable operations and maintenance control software.
“The network will provide critical communication capabilities for many different data transmission applications, including vital command and control functions, remote control of lunar rovers, real-time navigation, and streaming of high definition video. These communication applications are all vital to long-term human presence on the lunar surface.” Nokia said in a statement.
This network performs better on the moon since it won’t have interference from buildings, trees, or TV signals. It can withstand harsh conditions on the lunar surface, including radiation and cold temperatures. The 4G network is capable of remaining operational during lunar launches and landings.
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