Xihe-2: China’s Bold Step to Illuminate the Far Side of the Sun

China plans to launch the Xihe-2 solar observatory in 2028–2029. This new spacecraft will build on the Xihe mission, which was placed into orbit back in 2021, significantly enhancing the country’s capabilities to study our star. A key feature of Xihe-2 is its position at the Lagrange point L5 of the Earth-Sun system. This location will allow for observations of the far side of the Sun several days before active regions rotate to face the Earth. Such a vantage point will provide scientists with new data for three-dimensional analysis of solar processes and improve the accuracy of flare and plasma ejection forecasts.

The observatory’s name refers to ancient Chinese mythology: Xihe is the Sun goddess who governed its movement across the sky, from sunrise to sunset. In ancient China, the title of Xihe was held by an official responsible for observing celestial phenomena and preparing calendars. The Xihe-2 project aligns with China’s expansive space program, as the nation actively develops satellite technologies and scientific missions. In 2025, the country achieved 92 space launches, setting a new personal record, and its national space station is already in orbit and open to international collaboration.

In recent developments, China has been strengthening its position as a leader in space exploration through collaborative projects with other nations and investing in cutting-edge space technology innovation. The success of missions like the Mars rover Zhurong and the lunar missions Chang’e-5 have established China as a formidable force in the new space race.