China plans to launch Chang'e-4 before 2020

English.news.cn   2015-03-12 20:04:06     

BEIJING, March 12 (Xinhua) -- China will launch its Chang'e-4 lunar probe before 2020, the State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense (SASTIND) said Thursday.

The probe will conduct technical experiments and collect data.

The lunar mission will pilot a program that uses private investment from individuals and enterprises for the first time, a move aimed at accelerating aerospace innovation, cutting production costs and promoting military-civilian relationships, said SASTIND.

It will also expand investments allowed into military industry.

Chang'e-4 began as a backup probe for Chang'e-3. Since Chang'ge-3's lander and rover successfully landed on the moon in 2013, Chang'e-4 will be given a new mission, which will be decided after further study.