Mobile networks for space telecommunications: 5G network on the lunar surface.

During the current decade, the focus of space research and exploration is represented by the return of the human being to the Moon, with the aim of establishing a continuous and sustainable presence on its surface. One of the key aspects for the creation of a lunar outpost is the management of communications and services related to them. The objective of this study, performed in collaboration with Tim S.p.A. and the Polytechnic of Turin, is to carry out an evaluation on the possible use of mobile networks in the space sector. The ability to provide the services and performance currently achieved by terrestrial networks and technology is critical to the conquest of the lunar environment, now, and other celestial bodies, in the future. To achieve the goal, the state of the art of communications in the space field was evaluated and the history of mobile networks was retraced, focusing on the capabilities currently developed by the fifth generation. Subsequently, space programs, past and currently underway, which have glimpsed the potential in the application of the mobile network to extraterrestrial scenarios were investigated. Following a well-defined logical path, the possible realization of a lunar surface network was estimated, proposing the use of the currently available technology, and evaluating the arrangement of the equipment to obtain a result adequate to expectations. The results show how it is possible to use communication tools currently in use on Earth for the construction of a lunar network, adapting the equipment to the space environment and arranging them according to the limits dictated by the morphology of the selected lunar area. Future research may investigate the optimization of the possible distribution of cells depending on the exact location of the lunar village proposed by the Artemis program.