China
China´s new phase of lunar project plan completed
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Source: CCTV.com | 11-27-2007 14:05
Special Report: Chang'e I -Journey to the Moon |
The success of the Chang'e One mission has boosted the confidence of Chinese scientists to further engage in deep-space exploration.
The Director of China's National Space Administration, Sun Laiyan, says feasibility studies have concluded for Phase Two of the country's lunar probing project. And that detailed plans have been submitted to the State Council for approval. He also says China will seek more international cooperation in the future.
Sun Laiyan says lunar probing and manned space projects are 2 of the 16 key projects listed on China's medium and long term science and technology development program between 2006 and 2020. He says the tasks for China's lunar probing missions in coming years will be even more challenging.
Sun Laiyan said, "The main target of phase two is the landing of our lunar orbiter on the moon. We will launch a moon rover in about 5 years. For phase three, another rover will land on the moon and return to the earth with lunar soil and stone samples for research in 2017."
Sun Laiyan says the lunar probing project demonstrates China's commitment to the peaceful exploitation of space. China has already cooperated with Russia and other leading nations in Europe in the first stage of the project. And in coming years, China will seek closer cooperation with scientists from around the world in the field of lunar probing.
Editor:Zhang Ning
