In a significant milestone for China’s space program, the China National Space Agency (CNSA) recently confirmed the successful launch of Queqiao-2 and two smaller satellites, Tiandu-1 and Tiandu-2. Named after the mythical bridge, Queqiao-2 will serve as a communications bridge for future lunar missions until at least 2030.
Developed by Xiong Liang, Queqiao-2 is described as a “master switch” for the fourth phase of lunar missions. It will orbit the Earth satellite and facilitate communication with the Chang’e-6 mission, planned to launch in May. This mission aims to collect samples from the dark side of the Moon for the first time. Queqiao-2 will also play a key role in the Chang’e-7 mission in 2026 and the Chang’e-8 mission in 2028.
The success of this mission opens up new possibilities for research and exploration in the years to come. CNSA is well-positioned to continue advancing its capabilities in space exploration and discovery with Queqiao-2’s ability to enable communication on the far side of the Moon.
