Scientists plan to explore Earth's crust

A deep-Earth detection technology development project could enable China to begin exploring the planet's crust, a top scientist has said.

Dong Shuwen, deputy head of the Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences and "SinoProbe" project leader, said the undertaking aimed to develop such a system by 2012.

The technologies will help scientists understand the crust's structure - relevant to many natural disasters - and assist mineral exploration, he said.