At the time of The Third China Space Technology Forum, the Chinese Academy of Space Technology (CAST) revealed China’s plan for exploring Mars. The plan is mainly based on the technologies used in the Chang-E Moon Satellite Platform. According to CAST experts, the Chinese plan reached a pretty high level compared to Mars exploration plans developed outside of China in recent years. Experts also indicated that the Chinese space activities targeting Mars will increase China’s power in the deep space technology race and shorten the distance from leading countries. This is considered the mission of the future Chinese space technology development.
Source: Xinhua, October 21, 2010
http://news.xinhuanet.com/2010-10/21/c_13569005.htm