Finnish telecom group Nokia said it plans to bring 4G internet services to the moon in the coming months.
The mobile network will assist in NASA's Artemis program, which plans to send astronauts to the lunar surface for the first time since 1972.
Nokia said it plans to launch the network on a SpaceX rocket later this year.
- The connectivity will support apps, HD video, and more to help NASA create "sustainable exploration on the moon," it said.
- The network will be powered by an antenna-rigged base station stored in a lunar lander, as well as an accessory solar-powered rover.
- A 4G LTE connection will be established between the rover and lander.
NASA's next lunar mission, Artemis II, is expected to shuttle four astronauts to the moon’s orbit and back as early as November 2024.
- If all goes well, the agency plans to send two astronauts to the moon's surface in 2025 or later.
