Wang Yongzhi

The scientists of China's manned space program hope to complete three major tasks during the Shenzhou VI mission, which is scheduled to begin this morning.

"The first task is to acquire more basic technology in manned space flight, including flights that involve more than one person and last more than one day," said Wang Yongzhi, chief designer of China's manned space program.

The second task is to push forward scientific experiments in space, said Wang.

"Space provides precious opportunities to conduct scientific experiments and produce materials, industrial goods and medicines because of the vacuum and micro-gravity conditions there, which are not easily available on the ground," he said.

He said unlike the previous launches of Shenzhou spacecraft, humans will take part in this round of experiments.

"It holds the promise of making more discoveries," said Wang, 73.

The third task is to further evaluate the performance of various parts of the system for future improvements.

"We'll make further improvements to the spacecraft based on the results of our evaluation," he said.

"Now the rocket, spacecraft and various types of support facilities on the ground are in good condition. I believe this flight will be successful," he said.

Wang said China has become a major player in aerospace technology, but still lags far behind the United States and Russia.

"Manned space flight is one of the most sophisticated and difficult aerospace projects in the world. It's the embodiment of the comprehensive strength of a country," he said.

He said China's basic industry, especially the sectors related to raw materials, components and techniques, remain behind developed countries. As a result, the level of China's aerospace science and technology lags far behind the United States and Russia.

But, he said, China is quickly catching up as it embraces a leap-frog development mode.

"Although more than 40 years late, our spacecraft is of the same technological level as their near-Earth orbit spacecraft at present," said Wang.

"In addition, our spacecraft has its own good features. For instance, our orbital module can remain in orbit as a scientific application satellite after the spacecraft completes its orbital flight, instead of being jettisoned," he said.