Society

China's first rocket launch base to boost tourism

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2011-04-13 16:32

LANZHOU - China's first and largest rocket and satellite launch base, the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, aims to boost tourism over the next five years, an official with the local tourism bureau said Wednesday.

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The city in Northwest China's Gansu Province plans to boost tourism by building major tourist attractions emphasizing regional culture, aerospace technology and wind power, according to the city's five-year tourism development plan for 2011 to 2015.

The Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, established in 1958, just 210 km from downtown Jiuquan in the desert of Gansu Province, is the nation's only manned spacecraft launch center since Shenzhou-5 blasted off in October 2003.

The city's plans include offering new attractions and opening up new spaces to the public, including parts of Dongfeng Park within the city's center. An aerospace-themed cultural town and more interactive aerospace experience programs and facilities will be constructed to attract vacationers.

Additionally, a wind power museum will be built near China's first million kilowatt wind power station in Jiuquan.