Chinese VLBI Network and e-VLBI Technology Applications in Chinese Lunar Exploration Program

Very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) is derived from the synthetic aperture radio observation method invented in the last century. By combining a number of large aperture radio telescopes distributed over long distance, a virtual giant radio telescope is logically created. Global and regional VLBI observation networks has extremely high spatial angular resolution, which has been widely used in astrophysics, geodesy and deep space exploration aircraft tracking. In the Chinese Lunar Exploration Program (CLEP), domestic VLBI network adopted real-time e-VLBI technology as part of TT&C system has been providing fast and accurate orbit and positioning services during the Chang’E serie missions. It works for trajectories of  Earth-Moon flying, orbiting, descending, and returning to earth, made great contributions for orbit measurement. This paper introduces the general work of China VLBI network and detailed e-VLBI technology application in the three phases of CLEP, gives the details about system developments, operations and performance of the VLBI observation system. Final is the outlook of VLBI system future plan in deep space exploration missions and scientific programs.