In the vast silence of space, a quiet but consequential race is unfolding. It is not a relic of the Cold War or a vanity contest of ideologies, but a strategic and economic competition to secure humankind’s foothold on the moon. On one side, China is moving with remarkable coherence, advancing its Queqiao constellation to bridge communications between the Earth and moon. On the other, the United States, while home to a powerful private space industry, struggles with political uncertainty, shifting priorities, and threatened budget cuts. As both nations prepare for long-term lunar operations, the question is no longer whether humans will return to the moon – but who will lead this new era of space dominance.

China’s approach to lunar exploration is methodical and strategic, anchored in its state-backed, long-term ambitions. The recent advancement of its Queqiao constellation demonstrates this planning in action. Named after the mythological “Magpie Bridge” that connects lovers separated by the Milky Way, the constellation is a communications, navigation, and observation system designed to provide seamless links between Earth and the moon.

This network is not merely a technical upgrade – it is the foundation for sustained lunar activity. Queqiao-2, launched last year, already plays a critical role in preparing for future lunar landings by relaying signals and supporting mission operations. Tiandu-1, a small spacecraft moved into a resonant orbit with the moon, is analyzing the complex gravitational interplay between the Earth and its satellite. Another component, DRO-B, is venturing through Lagrange points – stable gravitational zones ideal for space stations and hubs.

China’s ambition is ultimately to establish a permanent presence on the moon, particularly at the lunar south pole, where water........

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