Beijing, Nov 30 (IANS)

China will launch the Chang'e-3 lunar probe Monday from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre, the mission's launch headquarters said here Saturday.

This will be the first time China is sending a spacecraft to soft-land on the surface of an extra-terrestrial body and conduct surveys on the moon, reports Xinhua.

Facilities at the launch site are in good condition and preparations for the launch are going well, according to officials.

Chang'e-3 comprises a lander and a moon rover called "Yutu" (Jade Rabbit). The lunar probe will land on the moon in mid-December if everything goes according to plan.

The tasks for Yutu include surveying the moon's geological structure and surface substances while looking for natural resources.