China is planning to launch its first recoverable moon orbiter later this year as a prototype model for its new lunar probe, the Chang’e-5, marking the latest step in efforts to ramp-up the country’s ambitious space programme.
The prototype will assess the technology to be used in Chang’e-5, which will be launched in 2017 to accumulate lunar samples and ferry them back to earth, reported Xinhua citing the State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defence (SASTIND).
The mission is set to be much more complicated than earlier explorations. The Chinese space agency will have to face technological challenges, including moon surface takeoff, sampling encapsulation, rendezvous and docking in lunar orbit and surviving high temperatures during re-entry into earth.
China’s latest move follows its successful completion of the Chang’e-3 unmanned lunar exploration mission launched by the China National Space Administration last December, paving way for the launch of Chang’e-4.
Initially developed as a back-up to Chang’e-3, the Chang’e-4 will now be re-built to trial the new equipment for the Chang’e-5 mission.
The Chang’e-5 will be launched into lunar orbit and return to earth at an escape velocity of 11.2km per second. The moon orbiter has already been transported to the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre in the south-western province of Sichuan.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataThe Chinese military-run project also has plans to establish a permanent orbiting station by 2020 and ultimately send a human to the moon.
