The Magpie Bridge-2 relay satellite is successfully launched. (PHOTO: XINHUA)

By SHI Shi & ZONG Shihan

On June 25, the Chang'e-6 probe touched down on Earth, bringing back the first samples from the moon's far side. As a communication bridge between Earth and the moon, the Magpie Bridge-2 relay satellite played a crucial role during this mission. But now that the mission is over, will it be in operation?

According to Yang Yuguang, vice-chair of the International Astronautical Federation's Space Transportation Committee, prior to the Chang'e-6 probe's journey to the moon, the pre-positioned Magpie Bridge-2 had already conducted various tests on its 24-hour elliptical lunar orbit. While the probe was collecting samples, the relay satellite provided it with over 20 hours of relay communication support daily.

After the probe's return, Magpie Bridge-2 will continue to operate. "The Magpie Bridge-2 relay satellite will remain online to meet the needs of long-term missions. Researchers have planned a 'frozen' orbit for it, finding a balance under complex gravitational conditions to achieve maintenance-free orbit operation. This can greatly reduce propellant consumption and enable it to have a long lifespan," Yang said.

When not performing relay missions, the satellite will not be idle but serve as a science and technology experiment satellite. It will collect data from the moon and deep space, laying the foundation for the development of future lunar communication and navigation systems.