China plans to establish lunar ground stations to connect Earth and moon
Chinese researchers have proposed an ambitious initiative to create a robust network connecting Earth and the moon. Spearheaded by the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) and the Beijing Institute of Spacecraft System Engineering, the project seeks to transform space exploration and communication. The plan involves setting up lunar ground stations and a satellite network to facilitate worldwide monitoring, navigation, and instant communication services.
Comprehensive lunar network infrastructure
The proposed lunar network infrastructure includes the construction of three lunar ground stations and the placement of 30 satellites. These facilities facilitate global tracking, precise navigation and real-time communication in space missions. The network is designed to allow up to 20 space travelers to communicate with Earth simultaneously using voice, images and video. In addition, it provides precise positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) for spacecraft traveling between Earth and the moon and during lunar surface operations.
Improved communication and monitoring
A key feature of this network is its ability to observe and track moving objects in cislunar space, the region between the Earth and the moon. The system is designed to detect objects as small as a meter, which guarantees comprehensive monitoring and safety in space missions. The strategic importance of the cislunar space is emphasized by Yang Mengfei, the chief designer of the Chinese Chang’e-5 mission, who emphasizes the importance of this area as a new frontier of human activity and a driver of global competition for resources.
Strategic importance and future tasks
The initiative emphasizes the need for strategic planning to avoid construction redundancies and to optimize the allocation of resources for future tasks. As China becomes a major player in deep space and lunar exploration, the focus is on securing a significant stake in the emerging cislunar space industry. Future missions under this plan include adventures in the outer solar system, construction of the International Lunar Research Station, and manned lunar landings.
China’s plan for a comprehensive lunar network infrastructure is a significant step in the global race for space exploration. Through strategic planning and resource optimization, China aims to establish a strong presence in the cislunar space industry and lay the foundation for future missions and international cooperation in space exploration and research. As other countries are also developing their cislunar infrastructure, this initiative puts China at the forefront of space technology and space exploration.
