Intuitive Machines to deliver the equipment for Nokia
Nokia’s research wing, Bell Labs, has been selected by NASA to lay down 4G network groundwork on the lunar surface. The project is a part of NASA’s ‘Tipping Point’ programme (small steps which lead to big differences). NASA has granted Finland’s Bell Labs $14.1 million for the project. The project also involves evolving the network to 5G in due time. The installation of 4G instead of 5G was decided because it is more reliable. 5G has been recently launched and its reliability test has not been concluded.
The network connection would help in data transfer applications e.g. control of rovers, real time navigation & streaming of high definition videos on the lunar surface.
The 4G network would be specially designed to withstand extreme temperature, radiation, and vacuum conditions of space. The project is to conclude by late 2022. Intuitive Machines, a Texas-based private space craft design company, will deliver the network equipment to the moon on their lunar lander.