A Long March-3B carrier rocket has left Beijing, on its way to southwest Xichang city, ahead of the launch of the Chang'e 3 moon probe.

The carrier rocket, which is being moved by train, is scheduled to reach the launch center on Friday. Chang'e 3 will perform a soft landing on the lunar surface, and carry a special moon rover for detailed exploration and collection of lunar soil and stone samples. The mission will showcase updated, state-of-the-art technology and capabilities.

The Long March-3B, with its four booster rockets, is China's most powerful carrier rocket. The probe is set to be launched towards the end of the year.

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