Breaking News English

China's scientific expedition to Moon has sent back its first photos of lunar surface. robot called Jade Rabbit became first vehicle to traverse Moon's volcanic ash since America's Apollo missions four decades ago. Scientists at China's mission control were ecstatic as first high-quality images came through of area of the Moon known as Bay of Rainbows. The photos showed rover with Chinese flag clearly visible against dark of space. Jade Rabbit is expected to test soil samples ahead of possible mining of Moon's rocks and minerals. Chinese scientist said: "China's lunar programme is important component of mankind's activities to explore peaceful use of space."

South China Morning Post described Moon landing as landmark achievement in Chinese history. It wrote: " world long ago sat up and took notice of China's rapid rise as space power….But nothing compares with scientific and technological significance of landing on moon at 9.12 on Saturday night." It said mission, "has transformed China's dream of putting a man on moon into given; sooner rather than later". China's science fiction writers are also overjoyed with their country's success. Chen Qiufan described his vision of future, saying: "I think everything will look differently when Chinese person looks at Earth from Moon." He added: "I expect that day will come.”