Real Wireless has been commissioned by the UK Spectrum Policy Forum (UK SPF), to carry out a major new study into how radio spectrum should be managed to support emerging lunar communications systems. The work will help place the UK at the centre of efforts to shape future lunar connectivity standards. The study will map the evolving spectrum landscape required for sustained lunar operations, including communications relays, surface networks and navigation infrastructure as international lunar activity accelerates.
Real Wireless will also examine future spectrum demand across multiple lunar use cases, assess suitable frequency bands and explore how regulatory frameworks can adapt to support interoperability between Earth-based systems, lunar orbit, and surface infrastructure.
Dr Abhaya Sumanasena, Head of Policy and Regulation at Real Wireless, said the study is a critical step in preparing for the next phase of space communications development:
“The Moon is no longer just a distant exploration target. It has the potential to be a practical operating environment for communications and navigation systems in the very near future. Establishing coherent, internationally aligned spectrum frameworks now is essential if we are to enable safe, scalable and commercially viable lunar operations.”
The work comes as space agencies and commercial operators increasingly prepare for long-term missions to the Moon, raising urgent questions about how spectrum can be coordinated, protected and internationally governed beyond Earth orbit. With initiatives such as the European Space Agency’s Moonlight programme and UK-supported lunar missions advancing, the study aims to ensure regulatory readiness keeps pace with technological progress.
The research will also consider coordination challenges with existing services such as radio astronomy and Earth satellite systems, alongside the evolution of international governance mechanisms through bodies such as the ITU.
The study reinforces the UK’s ambition to play a leading role in shaping global spectrum policy for space. Its findings are expected to help inform UK positions ahead of future global negotiations, including preparations for the World Radiocommunication Conference 2027.
The Real Wireless team will run the study for approximately three months, with a final report setting out recommendations on spectrum allocation, regulatory reform, and international coordination mechanisms for lunar communications systems, published for the UK SPF Plenary in July 2026.
