Mission Summary
Queqiao-2 is China’s second lunar communications relay satellite and a critical component of the fourth phase of the Chinese Lunar Exploration Program. Launched on March 20, 2024, the spacecraft was designed to provide continuous communications and navigation support for missions operating on the Moon’s far side and in the south polar region, areas that cannot maintain direct radio contact with Earth. The satellite entered its planned highly elliptical lunar orbit on March 25, 2024, becoming the communications backbone for China’s next generation of lunar exploration.
The satellite’s first major assignment was supporting the Chang’e 6 sample-return mission from the Moon’s far side, relaying commands, telemetry, and scientific data between the spacecraft and Earth. Queqiao-2 has also conducted successful communications tests with Chang’e 4 and carries three scientific instruments to study near-Earth space, the Earth-Moon environment, and radio astronomy in addition to its primary relay function. Designed for a mission life of at least eight years, it is expected to support future missions including Chang’e 7 and Chang’e 8.
Queqiao-2 represents a major step toward establishing permanent communications infrastructure around the Moon. Rather than exploring the lunar surface itself, the satellite enables other spacecraft to do so by maintaining reliable communications with regions permanently hidden from Earth. Its success is helping lay the foundation for China’s planned International Lunar Research Station and future multinational lunar exploration efforts.
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