HEFEI - China's Tiandu 1 satellite has become the first probe to enter a special Earth-moon resonant orbit, scientists announced on Tuesday.

The spacecraft successfully completed an orbital maneuver on May 22, entering what scientists call a "3:1 Earth-moon resonant orbit" after a week of testing.

The petal-like intricate orbit allows Tiandu 1 to complete three circuits around Earth for every one orbit by the moon, creating a regular pattern of movement between the two celestial bodies.

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This orbit has special mechanical properties that require relatively low energy to maintain, according to the Deep Space Exploration Laboratory.

The achievement marked a milestone for China's lunar program, as the flight data will support research on spacecraft navigation and control in complex gravitational environments.

Scientists say the resonant orbit technology could play a crucial role in future infrastructure development between Earth and the moon, potentially supporting China's ambitious long-term lunar exploration plans.

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Tiandu 1 and Tiandu 2 were launched in March 2024 alongside the Queqiao 2 relay satellite. Both spacecraft have already completed multiple in-orbit technology tests.

Tiandu 1 will continue its extended mission to verify key technologies for a comprehensive Earth-moon navigation and communication constellation system.