NASA Awards Modulate $38 Million for 5G Network on the Moon

NASA has awarded Modulate Space a fixed-price contract valued at approximately $38 million to develop core elements of a 5G communications system on the lunar surface, with integrated support for Wi-Fi 6, for the Glenn Research Center.

The work is divided into two phases: the first is a laboratory demonstration running from October 1, 2026, to January 31, 2028, and the second is a lunar flight demonstration running from November 30 to December 31, 2028, according to Cerebral Overload and SatNow.

The system is intended to support surface operations at the agency's future "lunar base," providing direct connectivity between equipment and crews on the Moon. The contract comes as part of efforts to prepare a communications infrastructure serving both crews and equipment.

The contract reflects NASA's trend toward relying on commercial off-the-shelf communications technologies instead of developing proprietary systems, which could reduce costs and accelerate implementation.

What do these terms mean?

5G: The latest generation of mobile networks, characterized by higher speeds and lower latency.

Wi-Fi 6: A modern standard for local wireless networks providing higher speeds and the ability to serve more devices simultaneously.

Fixed-price contract: A contract under which the company agrees to perform the work for a pre-determined amount, bearing any cost overruns on its own.

Lunar base: NASA's plan to build a permanent facility on the Moon to support long-term missions.