CHINA'S first lunar orbiter Chang'e-1 is transmitting data back to Earth as planned, the National Space Administration said on its Website today.

Tests on the orbiter's facilities showed that it is working normally and in good condition, the administration said.

The probe had orbited the moon 168 times by 2pm today, the administration said.

More tests will be conducted in the next few days that will help ensure data transmissions continue. The satellite has gone through a number of tests since it entered the moon's orbit on November 7. Chang'e 1's position was adjusted on Monday so its probing equipment faces the moon.

Chang'e 1 will relay its first picture of the moon later this month.