article_snippet: 2013 was a massive year for China whose scientists launched 16 spacecraft to firmly establish whose scientists cosmic credentials.
article_snippet: In October 2003, it became only the third country in history to independently launch a manned mission into space on the Shenzhou 5.
article_snippet: Chinese space authorities also said a number of 'cutting edge' technologies will be tested for the first time, including the highly anticipated 'space bus'.
article_snippet: China's National Space Administration operated the mission which incorporated a robotic lander and China's first ever lunar rover.
article_snippet: In June 2012, the Shenzhou-9 carried China's first female astronaut Liu Yang into space .
article_snippet: Mr Xiaojin says work is also continuing to extend China's lunar program, adding: 'China have made breakthroughs in most of the key technology needed for the Chang'e-5 mission [which is expected to land on the Moon by 2017]. 'this year China will conduct more ground tests, particularly ones involving theconditions which will imitate the environment on the Moon.'
article_snippet: Meanwhile, the Chinese government has already begun opening up the Chinese government the Chinese government lunar exploration program to private investment.
highlights_snippet: It became third country to launch manned space mission  in October 2003 .
  