Dubbed Tiandu-1 and Tiandu-2, these paired satellites will traverse the lunar orbit in tandem, serving as testbeds for pioneering technologies, ranging from navigation calibrations to high-reliability signal transmissions.
On Saturday, the Deep Space Exploration Laboratory (DSEL) announced China’s upcoming endeavor to dispatch two experimental satellites into lunar orbit, marking a significant stride towards establishing a communication link between Earth and the moon.
With Tiandu-1 weighing in at 61 kg and Tiandu-2 at 15 kg, both satellites boast a suite of payloads, including a Ka-band microwave communication system, a space router, and navigation and communication apparatuses.
Chen Xiao, commander of the Tiandu project at DSEL, outlined the trajectory of the satellites, detailing their journey from an Earth-moon transfer orbit alongside Queqiao-2, a relay satellite facilitating communications between Earth and the far side of the moon. Upon reaching lunar vicinity, they will execute a near-moon braking maneuver, maneuvering into an elliptical lunar orbit.
“In this orbit, the two satellites will undertake technology validations, employing satellite-moon laser ranging and inter-satellite microwave ranging for high-precision lunar orbit measurement,” Chen explained.
Furthermore, Chen emphasized that Tiandu-1 and Tiandu-2 will serve as pivotal components in laying the groundwork for a comprehensive Queqiao constellation system, bolstering future lunar communication endeavors.
Preparations are underway for the launch of the satellites from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in Hainan Province, Southern China, anticipated to occur by Wednesday.
Concurrently, Queqiao-2, stationed at the launch site, stands poised to facilitate communication between China’s lunar rover and the ground station, offering essential relay support for missions including Chang’e-4, Chang’e-6, Chang’e-7, and Chang’e-8.
