Conceptual Design of a Low-Cost Dual-Satellite Communication Network for the Cislunar Region

The advancement of sustained lunar exploration has underscored the need for continuous, autonomous communication systems in the cislunar environment. This work introduces the preliminary design of a low-cost, dual-satellite architecture that enables reliable data relay without persistent dependence on Earth-based infrastructure. The system leverages intersatellite links (ISL) between two CubeSat-class spacecraft in Earth-Moon L2 halo orbits, with store-and-forward capabilities supporting asynchronous communication with lunar surface assets during Earth occultation periods. Preliminary analysis includes orbital geometry, link budget performance, and subsystem-level trade-offs to assess feasibility under CubeSat constraints. The concept aims to extend surface and orbital communication coverage, offering a scalable and resilient relay solution for future science and exploration missions within the Earth-Moon system.