Unknown surface conditions will impact the Chang'e-3 mission

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Chang'e-3 will begin its 380-thousand kilometers trip to the moon in December. Landing on the moon is the end of the trip, and the goal of the mission. But it will not be easy to achieve.

One step on the moon, a big step forward for China's space exploration. The Chang'e-3 spacecraft is to fly with a touchdown target.

"The Chang'e-3 will achieve China's first soft landing on an extraterrestrial celestial body, and lunar patrolling. It will help the development of space technology," said Sun Zezhou, Chang'e-3 chief designer.

China has accumulated successful space experiences with the missions of Chang'e-1 and Chang'e-2. In 2007, Chang'e-1 successfully entered lunar orbit from 200 kilometers above moon. In 2010, Chang'e-2 successfully tested orbit control technology. However, despite the achievements, the chief designer says the risks are more than ever.

"It will land on the surface of the moon. How smooth the surface is, whether there are deep pits or rocks will have a great impact on the mission. The success of the mission depends greatly on the unknown environment," said Sun Zezhou.

The answer will be out in December. And success, is what every Chinese is longing for.

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