Chinese engineer launches low‑cost rocket, touts budget space travel
Lu Yulong and a five‑person team in Qinghai successfully launched the 12‑metre “Shenzhen Pioneer” liquid‑fuel rocket, reaching 3,700 m in February, demonstrating the feasibility of affordable spaceflight. The rocket was built in just 15 days, earning Lu the nickname “Madman of Science.” The achievement has sparked discussion about commercializing low‑cost rockets in China’s emerging space sector.