Nokia has partnered with Axiom Space to integrate advanced 4G/LTE communication capabilities into the next-generation spacesuits for the Artemis III lunar mission. The collaboration will equip the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU) spacesuits with the ability to support high-definition video, telemetry data, and voice transmission over long distances on the Moon, enhancing crew-to-crew communication and enabling real-time HD video streaming back to Earth.
This partnership represents a significant step in advancing space exploration, as the integrated network in the AxEMU spacesuits will serve as a vital link between astronauts and mission controllers on Earth. Nokia’s Lunar Surface Communications System (LSCS), developed by Bell Labs, will be adapted for use in these spacesuits, showcasing Nokia’s commitment to extending terrestrial communication technologies into space.
Key Points:
• Nokia and Axiom Space are partnering to equip lunar spacesuits with 4G/LTE connectivity.
• The AxEMU spacesuits will support HD video, telemetry data, and voice communication on the Moon.
• Nokia’s LSCS will be adapted for the Artemis III mission to enhance astronaut communication.
• The technology aims to improve crew safety and mission efficiency through real-time data exchange.
Thierry E. Klein, President of Bell Labs Solutions Research at Nokia, said: “Just as astronauts will need life support, shelter and food, they will need advanced networks to communicate with each other and go about their crucial work. Bell Labs has a long history of working on space projects, and Nokia is a leader in designing and building networks that connect the world. We are taking advantage of the same standards-based technologies that connect billions of devices on Earth every day, while bringing new innovation and technologies to bear on the specific challenges encountered in space.”
Russell Ralston, Axiom Space executive vice president of extravehicular activity, said: “Axiom Space is excited to work with Nokia to build on the advanced capabilities of our next-generation spacesuit. Adding high-speed 4G/LTE network capability on the Moon will serve as a vital bridge linking astronauts to Earth, facilitating crucial data exchange, and enabling high-definition video communication over long distances.”
- In October 2020, NASA selected Nokia to deploy the first LTE/4G communications system on the lunar surface.
- Nokia’s lunar network consists of an LTE Base Station with integrated Evolved Packet Core (EPC) functionalities, LTE User Equipment, RF antennas and high-reliability operations and maintenance (O&M) control software. The solution has been specially designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the launch and lunar landing, and to operate in the extreme conditions of space. The fully integrated cellular network meets very stringent size, weight and power constraints of space payloads in an extremely compact form factor.
- Nokia is partnering with Intuitive Machines for this mission to integrate this groundbreaking network into their lunar lander and deliver it to the lunar surface. The network will self-configure upon deployment and establish the first LTE communications system on the Moon.
