China aims for lunar base after 2020

China's first lunar mission would be followed by robotic missions in subsequent years that would be broadened to landing on the lunar surface and returning to Earth, then a brief human visit, Ji was quoted by AFP as telling the international astronautics congress under way in this southern Indian city.

The final stage, after 2020, will be to "stay and live longer term" on the moon and utilise its resources, Ji said.