Ibadan, 27 August 2024. – Axiom Space has partnered with Nokia to integrate advanced 4G/LTE communication capabilities into the next-generation spacesuits for the Artemis III lunar mission.
Together, Nokia and Axiom Space will incorporate high-speed cellular-network capabilities in the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU), supporting HD video, telemetry data, and voice transmission over multiple kilometers on the Moon. This advancement will consequently enable Artemis III crewmembers to capture real-time video and communicate with mission controllers on Earth while they explore the lunar surface.
Nokia plans to deploy the first cellular network on the Moon as part of Intuitive Machines’ IM-2 mission. During that mission, Nokia aims to demonstrate that cellular connectivity can facilitate crucial communications during future lunar or Mars missions. Furthermore, Nokia will deploy its Lunar Surface Communications System (LSCS) during IM-2 and further adapt it for use in the AxEMU spacesuit.
Axiom Space’s spacesuits will consequently provide astronauts with advanced capabilities for space exploration while providing NASA with commercially developed human systems necessary to access, live, and work on and around the Moon. The space company won $57.5 million from NASA to make this 4G/LTE network modification to the lunar spacesuit for the Artemis III mission, building upon its first Artemis task order in 2022, valued at $228 million.
Speaking on the partnership, Russell Ralston, Axiom Space executive vice president of extravehicular activity, said, “Axiom Space is excited to work with Nokia to build on the advanced capabilities of our next-generation spacesuit.” The Vice President also added, “Adding high-speed 4G/LTE network capability on the Moon will serve as a vital bridge linking astronauts to Earth, facilitating crucial data exchange, and enabling high-definition video communication over long distances.”
