As informs Space, German government is now beginning to look at orbiting of “only German” research probe for studying and mappings of the Moon. According to the available information, the probe can be launched in 2012.

It is supposed, that it will be located in “low” selenocentric orbit at a height of only 50 km. Such orbit will allow to receive Moon images, including radar, with unprecedented high spatial resolution, to conduct gravity measurements.

Thus the number of the “lunar” devices independently solving actually the same scientific and cartographical tasks will grow up to an unprecedented level. Now Japanese and Chinese devices start mapping a surface of the Moon and studying its properties. Also it is planned to launch the Indian research probe to the Moon.

Earlier ESA SMART-1 probe has successfully solved the complex of similar tasks.

• China prepares for the first launch of the lunar satellite
• Chinese People’s Republic has launched scientific satellite
• Iran’s first space terminal
• Commercial launch of the rocket-carrier in India