China Prepares to Launch Next-Gen Lunar Relay Satellite, Queqiao 2

Written by Copernical Team Tuesday, 19 March 2024 17:58

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Sydney, Australia (SPX) Mar 19, 2024

The China National Space Administration (CNSA) is poised to launch Queqiao 2, a pivotal relay satellite designed to support the Chang'e 6 moon mission and future lunar explorations, within the coming days. The launch preparations include the satellite and its Long March 8 carrier rocket, both of which have recently been positioned at the Wenchang Space Launch Center in Hainan province. Fol

China Prepares to Launch Next-Gen Lunar Relay Satellite, Queqiao 2
by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Mar 19, 2024

The China National Space Administration (CNSA) is poised to launch Queqiao 2, a pivotal relay satellite designed to support the Chang'e 6 moon mission and future lunar explorations, within the coming days. The launch preparations include the satellite and its Long March 8 carrier rocket, both of which have recently been positioned at the Wenchang Space Launch Center in Hainan province.

Following their individual transportation and assembly at the Wenchang center since February, the satellite and rocket are undergoing final checks, with propellant loading as the next critical step. This launch is seen as a crucial component of China's ambitious lunar exploration program.

Queqiao 1, Queqiao 2's predecessor, facilitated communications for the Chang'e 4 lunar mission by serving as a relay between the far side of the moon and Earth since its launch in May 2018. The upcoming Chang'e 6 mission aims to make history by collecting samples from the moon's far side, a feat yet to be accomplished.

The role of relay satellites like Queqiao 1 and 2 is essential for the communication of spacecraft operating on the moon's far side, due to their unique position blocking direct signals to Earth. Queqiao 2, heralded for its enhanced capabilities and expected longer operational lifespan, will play a critical role in supporting not only Chang'e 6 but also subsequent lunar missions.

Pang Zhihao, a seasoned space exploration technology expert, highlighted that Queqiao 2's deployment via a Long March 8 rocket signifies its advancements in size, weight, and functionality over its predecessor. This advancement underscores China's commitment to advancing lunar exploration and scientific discovery.

The Chang'e 6 mission, encompassing an orbiter, lander, ascender, and reentry module, will not only carry out sample collection but also host scientific instruments from international partners including Pakistan, France, Italy, and the European Space Agency. This collaboration marks a significant step in international space exploration efforts.

Based on a Xinhua News Agency article