Beijing (PIT): China plans to launch its third manned space mission in October during which the country's astronauts are to undertake their first ever space walk, the state media reported today. Three astronauts aboard the spacecraft Shenzhou VIII are expected to attempt Chinas first space walk during the upcoming mission.

Meanwhile, Chinese scientists have moved the rocket 'Long March II-F', the propelling vehicle to the Jiuquan Launch Centre at Gansu province in North-West China. Engineers have made 36 technical improvements in the new rocket, making it more stable and reliable and comfortable for the pilots, official Xinhua news agency said.

The rocket would be checked, tied up with the boosters and be connected with the vehicle in the coming few days, it said. China had launched two manned space trips in 2003 and 2005.

China, which has an ambitious space programme, launched its first lunar orbiter in October last year. It also plans to produce a new generation of more powerful rockets to inject heavier satellites into space.