Sunday, December 1, 2013

Chang'e-3 launched from Xichang

Chang'e-3 Lunar Probe Launch

The third mission of the China Lunar Exploration Program (CLEP), the Chang'e-3 mission to the lunar surface was successfully launched from Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Suchuan Provence only a barest  fraction following the opening of a planned launch window at 1730 UT (early Monday, December 2 at 1:30 am CST).

Details and mission background on the mission can be reviewed at an earlier post, HERE.

Xinhuanet, an official state news source, has provided images of the launch, as well as news and information on the launch of Chang'e-3, HERE.

Following orbital maneuvers and sunrise over a planned landing zone in Sinus Iridum, the landing of Chang'e-3, and subsequent deployment of the solar-powered Yutu ("Jade Rabbit") lunar rover, is scheduled soon after December 14.

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