A series of complete checks have been?finished ahead of the
launch of the Chang'e?I lunar orbiter with everything
proceeding smoothly. The lunar program team says it has strong
faith the mission will be a success.
It is a challenging job to transport all the necessary
facilities and equipment to the Xichang Satellite Launch Center. It
requires the utmost care. Everything was installed in a huge
warehouse, and thoroughly checked again and again. After four
complete examinations of everything except the fueling and
ignition, the results show that everything is working as it
should.
Filling the rocket with fuel started on the day before take-off.
It took a whole day to complete. This is the last crucial step
before the launch at 6 PM on Wednesday.
Ground control is also busy with its preparation. The weather is
a key factor that will decide if the lunar orbiter can be launched
on schedule. Experts say heavy rain and thunder would have negative
effects on the launch. But meteorological observation and analysis
forecast good weather.
Li Shangfu, director of Xichang Satellite CTR, said, "We must
ensure a successful launch with accurate organization and commands,
meticulous testing and strict quality control."
A media platform has been set up to broadcast the launch of the
Chang'e?I live on Wednesday. More than?100 journalists
are on the spot to cover the event.?
(CCTV October 24, 2007)
