China's Queqiao-2 relay satellite has successfully entered lunar orbit after a 112-hour flight. The satellite conducted perilune braking at a distance of approximately 440 kilometers from the lunar surface on Monday, enabling it to be captured by the moon's gravity after a 19-minute maneuver, according to the China National Space Administration (CNSA).
Launched on March 20 aboard a Long March-8 Y3 carrier rocket, Queqiao-2 is designed to serve as a relay platform for the fourth phase of China's lunar exploration program. It will provide essential communications services for future Chang'e missions, including Chang'e-4, -6, -7, and -8.
Perilune braking is a critical orbital control process for lunar missions. By reducing its velocity below the moon's escape velocity during approach, Queqiao-2 ensures a stable orbit around the moon, facilitating uninterrupted communication for lunar surface missions.
Additionally, two experimental satellites for communication technology, Tiandu-1 and Tiandu-2, were also launched aboard the Long March-8 Y3 rocket. Both completed their perilune braking and entered lunar orbit on Monday, demonstrating China's advancements in space communication technologies.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
