(Yicai Global) Jan. 23 -- China plans to launch a probe to the Red Planet on an exploration mission in July, China Youth Daily reported today.

This is the first time the country has revealed a concrete timetable for such a quest.

The mission will unfold in several stages, the report quoted an unidentified China Aerospace Science and Technology expert as saying. The probe will first ride aloft on a Long March 5 rocket into a transitional orbit between Earth and Mars and then make a series of orbital corrections, supported by the Earth-side control system. As the craft enters an elliptical Mars orbit and zooms to the entry window selected, the orbiter will release the landing module, which will then carry out roving exploration and other practical actions.

Beijing-based China Aerospace Science and Technology, the country's main space program contractor, will take charge of launching the Long March 5 Yao IV carrier rocket, whose engine has reportedly recently concluded final testing before leaving the factory.

This year will offer the opportunity to carry out Mars mapping missions, Jia Yang, deputy chief designer of the Mars Rover, told media earlier this month, adding the country will successfully launch an expedition to achieve Mars orbiting and lander patrols, and carry out comprehensive planet-wide and area surveys.

The Long March 5 rocket is a heavy lift launch system that China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology developed.

Editor: Ben Armour