China Moon Orbiter

The Chinese government launched its first lunar probe on October 24, 2007. Named Chang'e 1, the orbiter is the first step in a series of missions to photograph, map and study the surface of the Moon.

Fast Facts

1. China's first lunar orbiter
2. Named Chang'e 1, after a mythological character who floated to the Moon¹
3. Launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center on October 24, 2007
4. Successfully photographed the Lunar surface
5. Photo publicly released on November 26, 2007²
6. First step in the Chinese Lunar Exploration Program (CLEP)
7. Supposedly tested technology for developing remote-controlled space-based weaponry during the launch process³

Further Scientific Goals

The Chinese Lunar Exploration Program's further plans for the Moon include:

1. Mapping the lunar surface
2. Surveying the elements present on the surface
3. Analyzing soil depth and composition
4. Study space weather between the Earth and the Moon⁴

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