Chinese manned craft preps for 5,000 meter dive   

中国载人深潜器蛟龙号准备下潜 首次深度5000米

正在执行中国载人深潜器“蛟龙”号7000米海试任务的“向阳红09”船将于14日抵达马里亚纳海沟海试区域，如果天气条件允许，14日将在这里进行本航次的第一次下潜试验，首次下潜深度预计为5000米左右。

Beijing (CNS) -- Chinese manned deep-sea research submersible Jiaolong (Dragon) is revving up for its attempt to reach a depth of 7,000 meters, according to China Ocean Mineral Resources R&D Association on Wednesday.

The craft will arrive at the Mariana Trench June 14. Its first task is to conduct an under water trial at 5,000 meters if weather conditions are optimal.

The current assessment of the meteorological situation is that the window of June 14 to 17 will probably qualify for a deep dive, said Liu Feng, the local general commander.

Liu added that if conditions permitted, the trial at a depth of 5,000 meters will be performed with three Chinese crew members on board, as a lead up to the upcoming 7,000-meter dive.