axiom-space
Friday, August 23, 2024

Axiom Space, Nokia Join Forces to Boost Cellular Network Capabilities in NASA's Lunar Spacesuits

Published August 23, 2024 by Hailea Schultz

Houston-based Axiom Space and multinational tech innovator Nokia have formed a strategic partnership to enhance the next-generation spacesuits for NASA’s upcoming Artemis III lunar mission.

The collaboration aims to incorporate Nokia’s advanced 4G/LTE communication technology into the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU), which NASA selected Axiom Space to design in 2022. This upgrade will allow crew members to capture real-time, high-definition video, exchange critical information and communicate with mission controllers on Earth while exploring the Moon.

Developed by the renowned Nokia Bell Labs, Nokia’s cutting-edge technology, known as the Lunar Surface Communications System (LSCS), emerged from its selection by NASA under the Tipping Point initiative, which supports the development of space technologies to enhance future missions. The LSCS comprises two key components: a network-in-a-box, which consolidates the radio, base station and core network elements of a terrestrial cellular network into a single unit, and device modules that will be integrated into the AxEMU spacesuits.

The LSCS will be initially deployed during Houston aerospace company Intuitive Machines’ IM-2 mission, scheduled to launch later this year, establishing the first-ever cellular network on the Moon. This mission will test the technology to refine its adaptation for the AxEMU spacesuits and highlight the crucial role of cellular connectivity on the Moon and Mars.

“Just as astronauts will need life support, shelter and food, they will need advanced networks to communicate with each other and go about their crucial work,” said Thierry E. Klein, President of Bell Labs Solutions Research at Nokia, in a statement. “Bell Labs has a long history of working on space projects, and Nokia is a leader in designing and building networks that connect the world. We are taking advantage of the same standards-based technologies that connect billions of devices on Earth every day, while bringing new innovation and technologies to bear on the specific challenges encountered in space.”

This announcement aligns with NASA’s increasing investments in Houston companies and institutions as the region solidifies its position as a major player in the global space economy. NASA recently signed a Space Act Agreement with bp to leverage digital technologies and expertise to advance both energy production and space exploration. Earlier this year, the space agency also awarded the University of Houston $5 million to establish an aerospace engineering research center, focused on bolstering its human space exploration efforts on the Moon and Mars.

These partnerships are set to expand further through the NASA Johnson Space Center’s new aerospace innovation hub, Exploration Park. “I think you can plan for an increased number of partnerships going forward. I anticipate that partnerships will continue to become a bigger part of Johnson Space Center strategy,” Nick Skytland, chief technologist at JSC, told the Houston Business Journal. “We recognize that this is truly humanity’s collaboration to advance human space exploration. So, we want to see more people be part of that.”

Learn more about Houston’s aerospace industry

 

Continue Reading
Aerospace

Explore Houston.org

Learn More
H GHP
Why Houston

Discover what makes Houston attractive to companies from a wide range of sectors.

Learn More
Astros-Stadium
Living in Houston

There is no limit to what Houston offers residents. Find out what Houston life is all about.

Learn More
850_3279_11zon
Houston Data

Get up-to-date research and analysis on the Houston economy.

Get Involved
Membership

Create a meaningful impact and drive change in Houston. Take the next step to learn about our membership

Related News

  • Read
    GHP-Election

    NEWS | July 10, 2025

    Constitutional Ballot Could Have Big Implications for Houston Region

    This November, millions of Texas voters will head to the polls to decide whether to approve or reject 17 proposed constitutional amendments by state lawmakers. It’s an annual process that plays out in the fall during odd-numbered years following a legislative session.

  • Read
    Texas

    NEWS | July 9, 2025

    Texas Lawmakers Tap $361 Million to Bolster Regional Resilience

    Houston has made significant strides to improve its resilience as a coastal city over the past two decades. Federal, state and local leaders have prioritized efforts to strengthen flood mitigation, enhance power reliability and secure the region’s water supply. Each weather event has brought important lessons, prompting investments and solutions to protect homes, businesses and critical infrastructure.

  • Learn More + RSVP
    Houston

    Event | August 5, 2025

    Building a Resilient Houston: Fortifying Critical Systems for the Future

    Hear from leaders and representatives fortifying Houston’s critical infrastructure and learn how government, industry, and community partners are building a stronger, more prepared region.

Executive Partners