That's quite an exciting development! Nokia's partnership with NASA to bring 4G connectivity to the Moon could revolutionize communication and data transmission during lunar missions. It's a significant step towards establishing a sustainable human presence on the Moon and potentially beyond. With reliable communication infrastructure, astronauts can stay connected, access real-time data, and even stream video content, enhancing their efficiency and safety during missions. This collaboration underscores the importance of technology in advancing space exploration efforts.

A SpaceX rocket is scheduled to launch later this year, though the exact date remains unconfirmed. On board will be a basic 4G network destined for the Moon, where it will be installed at the lunar south pole by a lander. From there, it will be operated remotely from Earth.

Walt Engelund, deputy associate administrator for programs at NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate, explained to CNN, "The first challenge in establishing the network is ensuring the cellular equipment is space-qualified, meeting size, weight, and power requirements, and capable of deployment without the need for a technician." Additionally, the network must withstand the harsh lunar conditions, including extreme temperatures and radiation.

The 4G network unit is being developed by Nokia’s Bell Labs, utilizing a variety of off-the-shelf commercial components. It will be transported by a lander manufactured by US company Intuitive Machines. Once deployed, the network will establish connections via radio equipment to two roaming vehicles tasked with the mission of searching for ice on the Moon.