China plans to launch Chang'e-5 probe before Nov. ends

ANKARA

China is preparing to launch the Chang'e-5 probe before November ends, with hopes of conducting unmanned lunar sample collection and returning to Earth, state-run media said on Monday.

China's lunar exploration program is named after the legendary Chang'e, the "Moon Lady," who took a potion and floated into the sky, eventually landing on the moon, where she became a goddess accompanied by a jade rabbit, according to Xinhua News Agency.

The Chang'e lunar exploration program that began in 2004 includes orbiting and landing on the moon and bringing samples back to Earth. Here is a brief overview of China's journeys to the moon.

*Writing by Islamuddin Sajid