Nokia Put a 4G Cellular Network on the Moon but Couldn’t Make a Phone Call
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Summary
Intuitive Machine’s IM-2 lunar mission, in partnership with Nokia, intended to deploy a 4G network on the moon.
However, issues with the lander’s orientation and cold temperatures prevented the network from being deployed.
While the network was not activated as planned, Nokia still claims it “delivered the first cellular network to the moon,” having validated key operation aspects.
The network hardware, known as Network in a Box (NIB), was powered up and sent data to Intuitive Machines’ Earth ground station.
The intended rovers on the lander were not deployed, hence the network was not utilised as hoped.
Nokia’s 4G lunar network has been designed for extreme temperatures and lighter components more suitable for space travel.
Nokia is now focusing on developing 5G networks for potential deployment on future missions.
