China has announced plans to build a manned moon base which will explore lunar resources and act as a launchpad for missions to Mars.

The lunar outpost is expected to have "multiple tube cabins that interconnect and provide oxygen to people inside", according to a video seen by Chinese media.

The "scientific research" base, which will be partly sustained by solar power, marks the latest step in an ambitious space programme that is being spearheaded by Beijing.

"We believe that the Chinese nation's dream of residing in a 'lunar palace' will soon become a reality," China's National Space Administration said in video which outlines the plans, the China Daily said.

The newspaper said it was the first time that China had made public plans for a lunar outpost.

In April last year, a Chinese space official said Beijing was discussing a future moon outpost with the European Space Agency, but few details later emerged.