China is set to launch an experimental, recoverable moon orbiter before the end of the year, according to the nation's space agency.

The orbiter, which aims to test the technologies that are vital for the Chang'e-5 mission, will be launched into lunar orbit at an escape velocity of 11.2 km per second, said the State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense. The spacecraft will also return to Earth.

The craft was transported to Xichang in Sichuan province on Sunday and then taken to the Xichang Satellite Launch Center, according to a statement from the administration.