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
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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
1. Satellite Communications - Companies that provide satellite communication services are primed to take advantage of the growing demand for off-world internet connectivity.
2. 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.
3. 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.