China's third manned space mission has blasted off from a remote desert site.

The trip is expected to include the nation's first space walk by 41 year old Zhai Zhigang, an airforce colonel.

The Shenzhou Seven spacecraft shot up into the dark sky at the Jiuquan launch centre in the north western province of Gansu at 9:10 pm local time.

The take off by the three astronauts was broadcast live on state television.

Chinese President Hu Jintao, speaking to the control room, called the launch another great feat for the Chinese in world science and technology.

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