China plans final space tests

Chinese space experts are excited by recent successes

By Rupert Wingfield-Hayes BBC correspondent in Beijing

China says it is preparing for the fourth - and perhaps final - test launch of its Shenzhou space capsule, the vehicle that is due to take China's first astronaut into space.

According to state-run media, the fourth test launch could take place before the end of this year. If successful, the first manned flight may be just around the corner.

The excitement in China's space community is almost palpable.

Humans could be launched inside the fifth Shenzhou capsule

There is a real sense now that they are getting close to the moment when China will launch its very own astronaut - or taikonaut as they are known here - into space.

Four months ago, China successfully launched the third Shenzhou space capsule into Earth's orbit.

The only life on board was a batch of fertilised chickens eggs.

But the eggs survived their week in space and hatched out upon their return to Earth.

The success of that flight has boosted confidence and Chinese officials say the fourth test flight could now come before the end of the year.

Taikonaut training

If that is also a success, China may be ready to take the big leap and put a human aboard the fifth Shenzhou flight.

When that will be no one is quite sure.

A group of nine Chinese fighter pilots are reported to be in the final stages of training at a secret base outside Beijing.

The US Department of Defence estimates a first manned flight could happen within 18 months.

But given the intense secrecy surrounding China's manned space programme, it is probable the outside world will not get to know about the launch until it has already happened.