China's deep space exploration laboratory has started operation, the China National Space Administration (CNSA) said Tuesday.

Jointly established by the CNSA, Anhui Province and the University of Science and Technology of China, the laboratory is expected to carry out science and technology research focusing on major projects in the field of deep space exploration, according to the CNSA.

Headquartered in Hefei, capital of Anhui Province, it has completed various preparatory work and entered a new stage of substantial operation and comprehensive construction, according to the CNSA.

The establishment of the laboratory is an important step toward implementing the innovation driven development strategy and strengthening the country's strategic strength in science and technology, said Zhang Kejian, head of the CNSA, during a video conference of the laboratory council.

He stressed building the laboratory into a large-scale, national level comprehensive research base, as well as an innovation hub with global influence, and emphasized strengthening international cooperation in aerospace development.

Wu Weiren, chief designer of China's lunar exploration program and academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, was selected as the director of the laboratory at the conference.