October 24, China launched a probe into the Moon's orbit

China has announced it will launch the Chang'e One probe to Moon's orbit on October 24. This is China's first step in the race to the Moon, which is heating up globally.

Chinese self-propelled vehicles are expected to be taken to the Moon.(Photo: Reuters)

The next step, China will take the vehicle to self-explore the surface of the Moon, then bring it back to Earth. In the end, it is about bringing people to the Moon within the next 15 years.

Earlier on September 14, Japan successfully launched a satellite probe of Selene (also known as Kaguya) into the Moon's orbit. The US, Russia and India are also promoting projects to bring people to the Moon.

The chairman of China's Defense Science, Technology and Industry Commission (COSTIND) Zhang Qingwei said the country has carried out hundreds of tests to ensure the successful launch of the probe. According to him, Chang'e One is ready for his mission at Xichang Space Airport, southwest of Sichuan Province. The probe is equipped with advanced cameras and spectrophotometers to capture 3D images of the Moon's surface, and perform analyzes of the Moon dust.

In 2003, China became the third country after Russia, and the United States could take people up to space. In 2005, they brought two people into orbit.

Expected in 2008, Chinese astronauts will perform space walks.

Chang'e One artwork of China.
(Photo: space.skyrocket.de)