China Spacecraft Lands on Far Side of the Moon

China says it has successfully landed a robotic spacecraft on the far side of the Moon, the first ever such attempt and landing. The un-crewed Chang'e-4 probe touched down in the South Pole-Aitken Basin, state media said. It's carrying instruments to analyse the unexplored region's geology, as well to conduct biological experiments. Also: partial US government shutdown continues as Democrats prepare to take control of the House of Representatives; Zimbabwe's economy takes another hit as its biggest drinks firm plans to accept payment only in hard currency, such as US dollars.

(Photo: The Moon rover as depicted in Chinese state media. Credit: EPA/CNSA)