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Reaching for the Moon |
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The dream of the Chinese people to land on the moon has long been ingrained in
their hearts. However, it was Neil Armstrong, an American, who became the first
to step foot on the lunar surface and inspired the Chinese. Since then, the
Chinese have intensified their research on lunar missions and finally, the "Chang'e
Program" has been roughly outlined.
Around 2012, China plans to launch the "Chang'e-1," carrying the greetings of
the Chinese people to the moon, Chang'e's home. It will also broadcast 20 songs
with a distinctive Chinese national flavor to alleviate Chang'e's loneliness.
Chang'e may not be a real person, but the mission is very real.
Scientists have been working tirelessly, aided by modern technology, and their
progress has been rapid. After successfully completing the Shenzhou program,
they swiftly moved on to the Chang'e mission, originally scheduled for 2020 but
now advanced by eight years to 2012. This is not surprising, as China strives to
excel in every aspect. With the impetus of a group of scientists, China has
bridged the technological gap that was once several hundred years behind foreign
countries, achieving nearly 90% of parity in just three to four decades. No
longer subject to racial discrimination or derogatory terms like "sick man of
East Asia," China is now marching towards becoming a developed nation.
The launch of "Chang'e-1" signifies China's formal integration into the
international space community. Thus, I fervently hope for the successful liftoff
of "Chang'e-1" and the smooth execution of the Chang'e mission.
Go, China! Go, Chang'e Program! |
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