Ambitious Project Aims to Support Lunar Exploration
China is set to develop a network of satellites orbiting the Moon, enabling real-time, high-precision positioning. This ambitious project, announced by a team of researchers from the Beijing Institute of Spacecraft System Engineering, is designed to bolster China's lunar exploration efforts, particularly its focus on the lunar south pole.
A Network of Satellites
The proposed system envisions a constellation of 21 satellites deployed in four different orbits over three phases. These satellites are designed to be cost-effective and durable, offering a robust lunar positioning system.
Precision Navigation on the Moon
"The near-Moon constellation can pinpoint the location of every movement, launch and landing on the lunar surface, providing support for the long-term, high-frequency human exploration of the Moon," explained Peng Jing, lead researcher and deputy chief designer of China's Chang'e-5 mission.
This system takes inspiration from Earth-based global positioning systems like the American GPS and China's Beidou, which provide accurate location services. Like their terrestrial counterparts, the lunar positioning system will rely on signals from multiple satellites.
A Phased Approach
The system’s development will unfold in three stages:
- Phase 1: Two satellites will be placed in highly stable, elliptical orbits, enabling continuous communication between Earth and the lunar south pole, with minimal fuel requirements.
- Phase 2: The addition of nine more satellites and two new orbital configurations will provide round-the-clock positioning capabilities for the lunar south pole, enabling constant communication between Earth and any location on the Moon.
- Phase 3: The deployment of a total of 21 satellites in four orbital configurations will achieve highly accurate relative positioning for over 70% of the lunar surface.
Global Race for Lunar Navigation
The project marks China's latest venture into lunar exploration. Following the successful deployment of the Queqiao 1 and Queqiao 2 communication relay satellites for lunar farside exploration, China is making its mark in the emerging field of lunar positioning.
Similar initiatives are underway in the United States, Europe, and Japan. Notably, Japan proposed a system in 2022, comprising eight satellites in elliptical orbits around the Moon, aimed at communication and positioning for the lunar south pole.
Summary
China's proposed lunar positioning system represents a significant step towards its ambitious lunar exploration goals, particularly its plans to establish a base at the lunar south pole by 2035. The project highlights the growing international interest in lunar exploration and the development of advanced technologies to support future human presence on the Moon.
This innovative system will not only facilitate precise navigation and communication on the lunar surface but also provide valuable insights into the Moon's environment and potential resources. It underscores China's commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration and contributing to our understanding of the Moon and beyond.