Nokia has successfully landed the first cellular network on the Moon, marking a significant step toward advanced lunar communications. The Lunar Surface Communications System (LSCS), developed by Nokia Bell Labs, was delivered aboard the Athena lander as part of NASA’s IM-2 mission. Although power limitations prevented the first lunar cellular call, Nokia validated key aspects of the network’s operation.
Successful Deployment Despite Challenges
The LSCS, a “network in a box” (NIB), transmitted operational data back to Earth after landing. Nokia’s mission control center in California and Intuitive Machines’ ground station confirmed that the system successfully activated multiple components, proving its ability to function in space.
However, power constraints caused by the Athena lander’s solar panel orientation limited its operation to just 25 minutes. During this short window, Nokia completed critical tests, demonstrating that cellular technology can support lunar missions.
Key Achievements in Network Validation
The LSCS received and responded to telecommands, confirming that the base station, radio, and network core were working properly. Telemetry data also indicated that the LSCS module on Intuitive Machines’ Micro Nova Hopper was operational.
Unfortunately, when the network in a box was activated, the Hopper module’s temperature had dropped below operational levels due to the Moon’s extreme conditions. This prevented a connection between the two components, delaying the milestone of making a lunar cellular call.
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A Step Toward Future Space Communications
Despite this setback, Nokia views the mission as a major success. Thierry E. Klein, President of Bell Labs Solutions Research, emphasized that the technology functioned as expected under harsh conditions.
“If our device modules had been functional when our network in a box was powered up, all indications tell us that we would have completed the first-ever cellular call on the Moon,” said Klein.
He also highlighted that Nokia’s success demonstrates cellular technology’s role in space exploration. The company used commercial components from Earth, adapted them for the lunar environment, and proved they could work in space.
From the Moon to Mars
Nokia’s involvement in NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services initiative is part of a larger vision. The company sees lunar networks as a stepping stone to Mars, aligning with NASA’s Moon to Mars program. The goal is to establish permanent lunar infrastructure, supporting future astronaut missions and scientific research.
Klein emphasized that long-term lunar missions will resemble early Mars missions, where astronauts will stay for extended periods rather than making quick round trips.
Advancing Space Connectivity
Nokia is also working with Axiom Space to integrate high-speed cellular networks into the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU). These next-generation spacesuits will enable astronauts to transmit HD video, telemetry data, and voice communications over vast distances on the Moon. The first mission for these suits is set for 2027.
Paving the Way for Lunar Exploration
While the first Moon cellular call remains unachieved, Nokia’s success in deploying and activating a lunar network is a crucial step toward sustainable space communications. With future missions on the horizon, cellular technology is set to revolutionize lunar exploration and beyond.
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