China has announced that the second lunar probe, named Chang’e 2, will be launched before the end of 2011.

According to an official, this experimental satellite will mark the beginning of the second phase of China’s lunar exploration program.

The State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense stated that Chang’e 2 will carry out several experiments, which will involve five core technologies including orbital adjustments and soft landings.

After Chang’e-2, China will launch another lunar probe, Chang’e 3, which will carry out missions including soft landings and roving of the lunar surface.

The Chang’e 3 will return to earth with lunar soil and stone samples for scientific research at around 2017.

“Chang'e” is named after a Chinese moon goddess.