Nokia has been selected by NASA to deploy a space-hardened 4G wireless network on the moon. This forms part of the US space agency’s plans to establish a moon base which will act as a launch pad for trips to Mars.

The 4G mobile network will allow communications between astronauts and remote control of lunar rovers and other robotic devices.

Disappointedly for telecoms engineers with an ambition to travel, Nokia will not be asking for volunteers to take one large step for mankind. Instead, the equipment will be integrated into Intuitive Machine’s lunar lander and will self-configure upon deployment.

For a more down to earth perspective of mobile communications, PTT’s online courses “Introduction to mobile systems” and “Mobile radio communications” provide a journey through the principles and operation of mobile communications systems.