Lunar probe first step in deep space mission The country's lunar probe blasted off towards the Earth's only satellite yesterday evening on a 380,000 km journey that is a decisive step in the nation's quest to explore "deep space".

Lunar orbiter a milestone for space program The country took a big step forward in space exploration on Wednesday after launching its first lunar orbiter. [Full Coverage] [Video] [Audio Clips]

First lunar probe blasts off First lunar probe blasts off

3 factors likely to affect rocket blastoff Experts said Tuesday though China's Long March 3A has completed 14 successful launches in a row, there are three major factors that may affect its coming task to launch the nation's first lunar orbiter.

Moon orbiter, Chang'e I, sets to take off Visitors walk past Long March III carrier rocket at the Xichang Satellite Launch Center located in southwest China's Sichuan Province October 18. The country's first moon orbiter, Chang'e I, is set to be launched in late October.

Lunar probe duplicate on display