Relay satellite (launched March 2024) that, according to CLEP, provides communications for far-side and south-pole missions — a prerequisite for Chang’e-6, Chang’e-7 and Chang’e-8.
As of: 01 Jun 2026.
ongoingRelay satellite
Queqiao-2
鹊桥二号
As of: 01/06/2026Planned: 2024
Source/Licence: placeholder image – to be cleared
Overview
Quick facts
- Status
- ongoing
- Planned
- 2024
- Launch vehicle
- Long March 8 (CZ-8)
- Launch site
- Wenchang Space Launch Site
- Operator
- CLEP / CNSA
Mission goals
- Communications relay for far-side and south-pole lunar missions
- Providing the infrastructure prerequisite for Chang'e-6/7/8
Timeline / milestones
- March 2024Launch
- 2024Insertion into a halo orbit around the Earth-Moon L2 Lagrange point
- June 2024Supported the Chang'e-6 sample return as communications relay
Scientific results / significance
Without this relay satellite there would be no radio link to the far side of the Moon — it is the key piece of infrastructure for China's entire south-pole exploration program in the coming years.
Video
— No verified video link yet.