China to Launch Twin Test Satellites for Lunar Communication Breakthrough
Beijing, The Gulf Observer: China is set to launch two test satellites into lunar orbit to pioneer communication advancements between the Earth and the Moon. The announcement was made in a news release by the Deep Space Exploration Laboratory on Saturday.
The twin satellites, with respective weights of 61 kg and 15 kg, will operate in tandem in orbit around the Moon. Their primary mission is to validate cutting-edge technologies, encompassing navigation calibrations and high-reliability signal transmissions. The ambitious endeavor is expected to usher in a new era of lunar communication capabilities.
The Deep Space Exploration Laboratory outlined that the two satellites will be launched into an Earth-moon transfer orbit alongside Queqiao-2, a relay satellite dedicated to facilitating communications between the far side of the Moon and Earth. After reaching the transfer orbit, the satellites will undergo near-moon braking maneuvers to enter an elliptical lunar orbit.
Queqiao-2, scheduled for launch in the first half of this year, is poised to serve as a vital relay platform for the fourth phase of China’s lunar exploration program. It will provide crucial communication services for upcoming missions, including Chang’e-4, Chang’e-6, Chang’e-7, and Chang’e-8.
The initiative marks a significant stride in China’s pursuit of space exploration and technological innovation. With an emphasis on testing and validating new communication technologies, the nation is poised to establish a robust communication infrastructure in lunar orbit, opening avenues for future lunar exploration missions.
This development underlines China’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration and fostering advancements in communication technology beyond Earth’s boundaries. As the international community watches with anticipation, the successful execution of this mission is poised to pave the way for more ambitious lunar exploration endeavors in the future.
