Beijing, China (AHN) - China is set to launch its maiden lunar probe satellite in 2007. At a cost of $ 170 million the satellite will capture the three-dimensional images of the moon's surface.

Press Trust of India sources reports that the director of China's National Space Administration, Sun Laiyan, says that China's lunar exploration activities are designed to improve its independent innovation and promote its science, technology and social development.

As a developing country, the fundamental task for China is to further boost economic development, raise the living standards of its people, and advance its national modernization drive, he told the ongoing 8th International Lunar Exploration Working Group Conference in Beijing.

He said China advocates the peaceful use of both lunar and outer space resources for the benefit of all people.

He said China's first lunar orbiter is expected to be launched next year as scheduled. More than USD 170 million has been earmarked to fund the satellite project.

Sun said the satellite will capture three-dimensional images and analyze the content of the lunar surface. It will also measure the depth of the lunar soil and analyze the space environment between the earth and the moon.