Chinese Deep Space Network
The Chinese Deep Space Network is a network of large antennas and communication facilities that supports the lunar and interplanetary spacecraft missions of China. It is managed by the China Satellite Launch and Tracking Control General.
The network was first needed for the lunar mission Chang'e 1, but will be used to support future missions to the moon and Mars. Similar networks are run by the USA, Russia, European countries, Japan, and India.Network
As of 2007, the network consisted of:
Planned improvements by 2012, to support Chang'e 3 and Chang'e 4, include:
- Upgrades to the ground facilities at Kashgar and Qingdao, and a deep-space ground control station at Jiamusi.
- A new 35-meter antenna at the Kashgar station.
- A 64-meter antenna in Jiamusi.
As of 2017, China was constructing an additional ground station in South America, in the Neuquen province of Argentina, with a 50 million-dollar investment. The facility, a part of Chinese Lunar Exploration Program. It was inaugurated in October 2017. The station is seen by some as a symbol of China's increased role in South America's politics and economy.Uses
The network was used to track Chang'e 2, first to L2 and then to asteroid Toutatis.
