Firing Engines
A simulated view of the Chang'e-4 probe from below as it descends to the lunar surface. The mission to the uncharted side of the moon is scheduled for Jan. 3, 2019.
Up and Away
From the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in China's Sichuan Province, the Chang'e-4 lunar probe launches on Dec. 8, 2018. The probe is expected to reach its lunar target and complete the first-ever soft landing on the uncharted far side of the moon.