China launches new data relay satellite for Moon program.

China’s Moon Program: Launch of Queqiao-2 Relay Satellite

The next phase of China’s Moon program commences with the imminent launch of a cutting-edge data relay satellite. The primary purpose of this new satellite is to establish a vital communication link between lunar landers and rovers operating on the unexplored far side of the Moon and ground control centers on Earth.

The launch of the Queqiao-2 relay spacecraft is scheduled for approximately 8:31 pm EDT (00:31 UTC). Once launched, the Queqiao-2 will be propelled towards the Moon using a medium-lift Long March 8 rocket from the Wenchang launch base in southern China. This mission marks the third flight of the eco-friendly Long March 8 rocket, designed to replace older models powered by toxic propellants.

If the mission proceeds as planned, the Queqiao-2 spacecraft will be deployed into orbit within an hour of liftoff. It will then undergo a series of maneuvers to position itself in a stable “frozen” orbit around the Moon, conserving fuel for prolonged operations. The strategic orbit will allow Queqiao-2 to monitor designated landing sites for impending robotic Moon missions.

In addition to the Queqiao-2 satellite, the Long March 8 rocket will carry two smaller satellites, Tiandu-1 and Tiandu-2, to conduct advanced inter-satellite ranging tests. These tests will play a crucial role in the development of a future constellation of data relay and navigation satellites aimed at enhancing lunar exploration capabilities.

Far-Side Operations and Chang’e 6 Mission

In May, China plans to launch the Chang’e 6 lunar lander using a heavy-lift Long March 5 rocket. This mission marks a significant milestone as it will be the first Chinese lunar lander to utilize the new data relay satellite for direct communication. Chang’e 6 aims to collect samples from the far side of the Moon, a region yet to be explored for detailed examination in Earth laboratories.

Prior achievements include the successful soft landing of Chang’e 4 on the far side in 2019, with the previous data relay satellite Queqiao-1 facilitating the mission. The upcoming Chang’e 6 mission seeks to gather rocks from this uncharted territory and transport them back to Earth, adding a unique set of lunar specimens to scientific research.

It is noteworthy that China’s space program has made significant progress over the years, with each mission building upon the accomplishments of its predecessors. The development of advanced relay satellites like Queqiao-2 signifies China’s commitment to advancing lunar exploration and scientific research.