The moon are getting 4G internet

 

NASA and Nokia are collaborating on an ambitious project to establish a cellular network on the Moon, marking a significant step towards enabling long-term human presence on celestial bodies beyond Earth. This groundbreaking initiative involves deploying a 4G network to the lunar surface, which could pave the way for activities like texting and streaming on other planets, including Mars.

The plan involves launching a SpaceX rocket carrying the 4G network equipment to the Moon's south pole later this year. The network will be installed by a lander and then remotely controlled from Earth. Nokia's Bell Labs is responsible for building the space-qualified cellular equipment, which must meet stringent requirements for size, weight, power, and durability to operate effectively in the harsh lunar environment.

Once deployed, the 4G network will facilitate communication between the lander and two roaming vehicles tasked with exploring the lunar surface. These vehicles will search for ice, a crucial resource that could support future human missions by providing breathable oxygen and fuel.

The success of this project holds significant implications for NASA's Artemis program, which aims to return astronauts to the Moon within this decade. A reliable communications system on the Moon is essential for supporting advanced missions and enabling astronauts to transmit high-resolution video, scientific data, and even communicate with their families.

Moreover, the establishment of a lunar communications network could lay the groundwork for an off-world internet, allowing space colonists to use smartphones and access a wide range of applications and services similar to those available on Earth.

Beyond its significance for space exploration, the project has potential commercial applications on Earth. The compact and durable network equipment developed for lunar deployment could be utilized in remote and harsh environments on Earth, such as polar regions, deserts, or offshore platforms, for industrial, public safety, emergency response, and defense purposes.

Overall, the collaboration between NASA and Nokia represents a major milestone in humanity's quest to expand its presence beyond Earth and establish sustainable habitation on other celestial bodies.