Beijing launches lunar probe

Friday 01 October 2010 19:00 EDT

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

China launched an unmanned lunar probe yesterday.

It is the latest milestone for an ambitious space programme that aims to put a man on the moon later this decade.

The Chang'e II was shot into space aboard a Long March 3C rocket from the launch site in south-western China's Sichuan province, according to footage aired by the state broadcaster China Central Television. The probe plans to test technology in preparation for an unmanned moon landing in 2012, with a possible manned lunar mission to follow in 2017. China launched its first manned flight in 2003.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Thank you for registering

Beijing launches lunar probe

Join our commenting forum

Thank you for registering