China to launch sample return re-entry test vehicle

Long March 3C at Xichang [CNSA/CLEP].

Mo Hong'e

Xinhua

China will launch a new lunar mission this week to test technology likely to be used in Chang'e-5, a future lunar probe with the ability to return to Earth.

The experimental spacecraft launched this week is expected to utilize a free-return trajectory to fly high over the Moon's farside and adjust its course for return directly to Earth, according to a source with the State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense.

The test module is reportedly in nominal condition and is scheduled to launch sometime prior to local dawn, between Friday and Sunday, from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center.

China's Long March-3C booster will carry the mission through trans-lunar injection.

The mission will involve the spacecraft cislunar navigation, re-entering Earth's atmosphere at above 11 km per second and landing safely on Earth, the source said.

Testing the spacecraft to return land safely at a pre-determined location is considered to be a key capability needed for Chang'e-5, the 2017 mission  designed to land, retrieve lunar samples, launch from the Moon and return the samples to Earth.