Design and Construction
The spacecraft had a launch mass of approximately 2,480 kilograms and was based on the DFH-3 satellite bus. It was equipped with a CCD stereo camera, a laser altimeter, gamma and X-ray spectrometers, and a microwave detector to conduct comprehensive lunar observations.
Mission Objectives
Chang’e 2 aimed to map the lunar surface with higher resolution than its predecessor, particularly focusing on the Sinus Iridum area đŸ”—, a potential landing site for future missions. It also sought to test key technologies and gather data to support subsequent lunar exploration endeavors.
Launch and Deployment
The probe was launched aboard a Long March 3C rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center. It took a direct trajectory to the Moon, reaching lunar orbit within 5 days, significantly faster than Chang’e 1.
After completing its primary mission, Chang’e 2 departed lunar orbit and traveled to the Earth–Sun L2 Lagrangian point to test tracking and control networks. Subsequently, it conducted a successful flyby of asteroid 4179 Toutatis đŸ”— on December 13, 2012, passing within 3.2 kilometers of the asteroid.
Technical Specifications
- Weight: Approximately 2,480 kg
- Power: Solar panels generating adequate power for the mission duration
- Instruments: CCD stereo camera, laser altimeter, gamma and X-ray spectrometers, microwave detector
- Orbit: Initial 100 km circular lunar orbit; later traveled to Earth–Sun L2 point and conducted asteroid flyby
- Communication: S-band and X-band for data transmission
- Launch Vehicle: Long March 3C rocket
Current Status
Chang’e 2’s successful mission provided China with valuable experience in deep-space navigation and laid the groundwork for future lunar and interplanetary missions. Its extended mission to L2 and the Toutatis flyby demonstrated China’s growing capabilities in space exploration beyond lunar orbit.
