First cell service launching on the Moon tonight

Intuitive Machines is set to launch its Nova-C lander, Athena, to the Moon tonight, aiming to provide the first cell service on the lunar surface. This mission follows their historic landing last year, marking the first U.S. lunar landing since 1972. Athena will test a 4G network using Nokia's technology, with two vehicles deployed to communicate with the lander. The mission will also involve drilling lunar soil to search for organic materials, contributing to resource exploration. This launch is part of NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services program, with multiple payloads from various partners. It will be the fourth CLPS mission in four years, with another lunar landing planned shortly after.