Nokia launched a 4G network on the Moon for the first time in history as part of the IM-2 mission. Because of the unsuccessful landing of the Athena lander, which delivered the equipment, the connection operated for just 25 minutes. Despite this, the system successfully transmitted data to Earth, confirming that it works.
Nokia’s technology has been adapted to the Moon’s vacuum: its components are lightweight, and its cooling system works without an atmosphere. This is a first step toward creating permanent communications on the Moon. As part of the Artemis III program, a 4G network will be built into astronauts’ spacesuits.
The IM-2 mission has ended, but Nokia is continuing to test the technology. The experiment demonstrated that cellular communications can work in space, opening up possibilities for future lunar colonies.
