A Lunar Surface Relay Network for Continuous Far-Side Communications: Concept and Technology Integration

This paper presents a conceptual architecture for a lunar surface-based relay network intended to provide continuous, orbit-independent communications coverage across the far side of the Moon.The proposed system comprises a permanent high-capability hub station on the lunar near side linked wirelessly to a chain of lightweight, software-defined repeater nodes distributed progressively across the far side. Signal propagation proceeds hop-by-hop along the node chain until it reaches the hub, which maintains a persistent link to Earth.The concept is distinguished from existing orbital relay proposals by its permanent positioning, elimination of station-keeping requirements, and incremental deployment model in which each successive mission to the far side contributes additional nodes to the network.Current and emergent technologies including optical laser communications, Delay/Disruption Tolerant Networking, Software Defined Radio, 3GPP 5G surface networking, and the LunaNet interoperability framework are assessed and proposed for integration. Compatibility with NASA's LunaNet standards is identified as both achievable and strategically desirable.