Private companies asked to joinmoon program

China will open its lunar exploration program to private enterprises in an attempt to boost technological innovation and break State-owned companies' monopoly in the space field, according to the country's top space authority.

As a starting measure, private enterprises are being encouraged to take part in the Chang'e-4 lunar probe mission, according to a statement issued by the State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense, which oversees space programs.

The mission will serve as a platform "for technological research and development, product tests as well as data application" for private companies, the statement said. "The move will help break the monopoly in the space field, accelerate technological innovation, reduce the government's investment and improve efficiency."