XICHANG, Sichuan, Oct. 24 (Xinhua) -- The scientific objectives of China's lunar orbiter project include:

    -- A three-dimensional survey of the Moon's surface;

    -- Analysis of the abundance and distribution of elements on lunar surface;

    -- An investigation of the characteristics of lunar regolith, the powdery soil layer on the surface;

    -- And an exploration of the circumstance between the Earth and the Moon.

    The technological objectives of the project include:

    -- The development and launch of China's first lunar orbiter;

    -- A trial of the technologies needed for lunar orbiting;

    -- The start of China's scientific exploration of the Moon;

    -- The development of a basic engineering system for lunar exploration;

    -- Experience for subsequent lunar explorations.

    It is the first step of China's three-stage lunar exploration program.

    The second phase is to launch a lunar rover for a soft landing on the lunar surface.

    The third phase is to send and recover a second rover with lunar soil and stone samples for scientific research.

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