# Longjiang 2

> Chinese satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q60846119](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q60846119)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/longjiang-2

## Summary  
Longjiang 2 is a Chinese amateur radio satellite launched into lunar orbit in 2018. It serves as a platform for amateur radio communication and scientific observation around the Moon.

## Key Facts  
- Launched on May 20, 2018  
- COSPAR ID: 2018-045C  
- Also known as LO-94, Lunar OSCAR 94, and Longjiang-2  
- Satellite class: Amateur radio satellite  
- Orbit: Lunar orbit  
- Launch vehicle: Long March 4C  
- SCN (Satellite Catalog Number): 43472  
- Operated in coordination with amateur radio communities globally  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is Longjiang 2 used for?  
A: Longjiang 2 is used for amateur radio communication and lunar observation. It enables radio enthusiasts worldwide to participate in space-based communications.

### Q: When was Longjiang 2 launched?  
A: Longjiang 2 was launched on May 20, 2018, aboard a Long March 4C rocket.

### Q: Who operates Longjiang 2?  
A: Longjiang 2 is operated in collaboration with amateur radio operators globally, under the framework of the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU).

## Why It Matters  
Longjiang 2 represents China's growing involvement in lunar exploration and international amateur radio initiatives. As one of the few lunar-orbiting amateur satellites, it provides global radio amateurs with rare access to deep-space communication opportunities. Its mission supports educational outreach, technical experimentation, and public engagement in space science. The satellite also contributes to lunar studies through imaging and other observational payloads, bridging professional and amateur domains in space exploration.

## Notable For  
- One of the few amateur radio satellites in lunar orbit  
- First successful Chinese student-built satellite to reach lunar orbit  
- Enabled global amateur radio participation in lunar missions  
- Demonstrates cost-effective deep-space communication platforms  
- Supports both technological demonstration and public education goals  

## Body  

### Mission Overview  
Longjiang 2 was part of China’s Chang’e 4 mission infrastructure, launched alongside the Queqiao relay satellite. Its primary purpose was to test technologies relevant to future lunar missions while engaging the amateur radio community.

### Technical Specifications  
- **Launch Date**: May 20, 2018  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Long March 4C  
- **Orbit Type**: Lunar orbit  
- **Catalog Number (SCN)**: 43472  
- **International Designators**:  
  - LO-94  
  - Lunar OSCAR 94  
  - 2018-045C  

### Operational Role  
As an amateur radio satellite, Longjiang 2 facilitates two-way communication between ground stations and the spacecraft. This allows licensed radio operators around the world to transmit signals via the satellite, supporting educational outreach and technical development within the amateur radio community.

### Scientific Payloads  
The satellite carried several payloads including a camera for lunar surface imaging and a low-frequency radio spectrometer designed to study the Moon's environment. These instruments contributed data useful for understanding the lunar exosphere and subsurface properties.

### Legacy and Impact  
Longjiang 2 demonstrated that small satellites can successfully operate in complex lunar orbits, paving the way for future CubeSats in deep space. Its success has inspired similar projects aimed at combining professional space science with grassroots amateur participation.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report