What could be termed a milestone in Pakistan’s progress in the field of space, the country has now become a part of China’s moon mission, Chang'e-6, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Monday.

Pakistan, in collaboration with China’s moon mission, will soon send its artificial satellite, ICUBE, into space.

Pakistan Institute of Space Technology, SUPARCO, Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization (APSCO) and Shanghai Jiao Tong University will collaborate with each other in the manufacture of ICUBE, which will weigh seven kilograms and two optical cameras will also be attached to it.

The basic mission of Chang'e-6 is to collect samples of dirt from South Pole of the moon.

Part of the moon where China’s satellite will land will not be visible to people on Earth.

A special satellite will also be released into the space in order to improve communication between Chang'e-6 and the control room on Earth.

China will also transport payloads from France, Italy, Sweden to space.

Long March 5, the rocket which will carry China’s satellite into space, will bear besides Pakistan, the logos of the European, Chinese and French space missions.

Preparations for the launch of Chang'e-6 are in the final stages as the rocket has been placed on the launcher for its onward journey to space.

The satellite is expected to leave for space in the first week of May.

Reporter: Ahmad Mansoor