President Hu congratulates on successful launch of Chang'e-1

Special report: China launches first lunar orbiter

XICHANG, Sichuan, Oct. 24 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Hu Jintao extended his congratulations on the successful launch of China's lunar probe Chang'e-1 on Wednesday.

Hu also expressed his regards to the scientists, technicians and army officers who have worked for the research, development and experiment of the lunar orbiter project.

Vice Premier Zeng Peiyan conveyed Hu's congratulations and regards at Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China's Sichuan Province.

Zeng said "the successful launch of Chang'e-1 is a key step of China's space exploration program."