China is set to launch Chang’e II, its second lunar probe, before 3 October 2010.

The probe will test key technology for Chang’e III, collect data for future landings of Chang’e III and Chang’e IV, and provide high-resolution photographs of the landing area.

To be launched atop a Long March CZ-3C rocket, the satellite will take about five days to reach its lunar orbit.

Chang’e II will circle round the moon at a 100km high moon orbit and then seek to move into an elliptical orbit 15km above the moon.

The satellite is equipped with a stronger camera than its predecessor for capturing images of the planned landing area of Chang’e III with a resolution of 1.5m from 15km above the moon.

Chang’e II will also observe lunar elements and materials while examining characteristics of lunar soil and the space environment for further moon explorations.

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