50-day countdown: Beijing ready for Olympics

With just 50 days to go, Beijing says the city is ready to host the 2008 Summer Olympics. Finishing touches are being added to Olympic venues, and most of the infrastructure is already in place.

The opening of one of the greatest events in the history of modern China is getting closer.

The main venues for the Beijing Olympics have been completed, with many already hosting test events.

But workers are still fine tuning everything in order to present Summer Games that will impress the entire world.

On Thursday, the solar energy system in the Athletes' Village began operating. All of the infrastructure in the village is now fully functioning. Media organizations also tested out the International Broadcasting Center.

Sun Weide, Deputy Media Director, BOCOG, said, "I would say I think we are basically ready to host a successful Olympic Games. Of course as we are getting closer to it, we have to put the final touches and maybe a number of refining and final tunings."

No expense has been spared making improvements to public transportation.

The capital's international airport recently opened a third terminal to accommodate expected large numbers of foreign visitors.

Beijing's subway system has also been expanded. A system that only had two lines just a few years ago will have eight lines by the opening of the Games, including an airport express.

Behind the scenes, monitoring and coordination of the city's traffic and security has been increased.

The 2008 Summer Olympic Games kick off on August 8 at 8:08PM local time.