China says the launch of its first lunar probe Chang’e I is just around the corner. Chinese scientists made the announcement on Wednesday, saying the satellite would be launched in the second half of this year.

　　Since China announced the project in 2004, the country’s first lunar exploration project has drawn world-wide attention. Now, China’s space scientists say the satellite is ready for lift off.

　　Ouyang Ziyuan, chief scientist, China’s lunar exploration project, said, “Preparations for the satellite, rocket, ground control and data reception are ready for the exploration. We will be able to launch the probe the second half of this year.”

　　The probe’s operational orbit has already been decided on. Chang’e I is scheduled to enter the moon’s orbit after a nearly 400 000-kilometer journey in space. And a committee of over 100 space experts has also been established for the project. The scientists have agreed to share the data sent back by Chang’e I on the lunar environment.

　　Ouyang Ziyuan said, “We will make a 3D map of the moon and research the distribution of lunar elements, lunar soil thickness and the moon’s surface environment.”

　　Ouyang Ziyuan says Chang’e I will be carried by a long march A3 carrier rocket for its launch. This is scheduled to take place at the Xi’chang satellite launch center.

1. What does the underlined words “around the corner” in the first paragraph mean?

　　A. in the corner　 B. on the way　 C. in the way　 D. at the corner

2. When did China announce the project?

　　A. In the second half of this year. B. In 2004.C. In the first half of this year. D. In 2008.

3. How long will chang’e i travel before it enters the moon’s orbit?

　A. 300 000 kilometers.　 B. 400 000 meters. C. 400 000 000 meters.D. 5 000 000 kilometers.

4. What will chang’e i do in space?

　　A. It will just circle around the moon.

　　B. It will make a 2d map of the moon and research the distribution of lunar elements.

　　C. It will send the tv signals to make our life more colorful.

　　D. it will make a 3d map of the moon and do some research about the moon.

5. Which one is true?

　　A. the committee is made up of less than 100 space experts.

　　B.It is scheduled to launch at the Jiuquan satellite launch center.

　　C. the data sent back by chang’e I will be shared by the scientists.

D. chang’e I will be carried by a long march b3 carrier rocket for its launch.