Nokia and Intuitive Machines, Inc. have announced the completion of the final integration of Nokia’s Lunar Surface Communication System (LSCS) into the IM-2 mission lander, Athena, which will travel to the Moon's south pole. This mission aims to deploy the first cellular network on the Moon.

Engineers from Intuitive Machines mounted the LSCS, described as a “network in a box,” to one of Athena's upper panels after extensive testing and validation at Nokia Bell Labs. The installation includes thermal isolation at each mounting point to withstand harsh lunar conditions. Additionally, the network is integrated with Athena's Thermal Protection System to maintain temperature control during operation and downtime.

Nokia's LSCS also comprises two modules that have been installed on two lunar rovers: Intuitive Machines’ Micro-Nova Hopper and Lunar Outpost’s Mobile Autonomous Prospecting Platform (MAPP). Once on the Moon, both vehicles are set to establish connections to Athena's network.

The LSCS leverages established 4G/LTE technology to facilitate surface connectivity, supporting high-definition video streaming, command-and-control communications, and telemetry data transmission. Intuitive Machines plans to use its direct-to-Earth data transmission service to relay information from the LSCS back to Earth.

Thierry E. Klein, President of Bell Labs Solutions Research at Nokia, emphasized the potential for cellular technology to transform lunar communication, stating, “We intend to prove that cellular technologies can provide the reliable, high-capacity and efficient connectivity needed for future crewed and uncrewed missions to the Moon and eventually Mars.” Nokia Bell Labs developed the LSCS in collaboration with Intuitive Machines, which is working under NASA’s Tipping Point initiative to advance commercial space capabilities. The upcoming IM-2 mission will also test sensors to identify lunar resources such as water ice.

Steve Altemus, CEO of Intuitive Machines, remarked on the significance of integrating Nokia’s technology on the lunar surface, indicating it as a landmark moment in the commercialization of space and the sustainability of the lunar economy.

The launch of the Athena lander is scheduled for late February from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.