NASA has selected Nokia as its collaborator for the mission of ensuring the possibility of a moon-based cellular service. Establishing communication on the lunar service is a crucial component for future space projects for the organization—one of which is NASA's Artemis program which is aiming to have a sustainable presence on the Moon by the end of this decade.
This LTE/4G moon-based cellular service will be the first of its kind. In order to build "the first ultra-compact, low-power, space-hardened, end-to-end LTE solution," Nokia is partnering up with Intuitive Machines. In terms of result, Nokia shared in a press release that "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."
Moon-Based Cellular Services
Nokia and NASA Partner Up to Offer LTE/4G Technology on the Moon
Trend Themes
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Moon-based Cellular Services — The trend of developing communication technologies and expand coverage beyond earth opens up opportunities for new markets for satellite providers and communication equipment makers.
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Space-hardened Technologies — The trend of developing rugged, radiation-hardened, and ultra-compact hardware, software, and systems for space applications creates opportunities for suppliers of critical components and systems.
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Remote Control of Lunar Rovers — Technologies for remote operation and control of rovers and drones on the Moon opens up opportunities for robotics and automation technology companies to develop new capabilities for Earth-based applications.
Industry Implications
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Satellite Communications — Companies that provide satellite communication services are primed to take advantage of the growing demand for off-world internet connectivity.
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Telecommunications Equipment Manufacturing — Telecom equipment manufacturers and suppliers have the opportunity to establish themselves in the growing space industry and supply critical hardware and components required for communication in space.
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Robotics and Automation — Companies in the robotics and automation industry can leverage their experience in developing remote control systems to create autonomous systems capable of operations on the Moon and beyond.