Lu Yulong, a self-taught innovator, has successfully launched a low-cost rocket, demonstrating the viability of affordable space exploration. The Shenzhen Pioneer rocket set a regional altitude record in China.

An innovator in China has successfully launched a self-developed low-cost rocket, proving the feasibility of budget space exploration to the world. In February, the 12m Shenzhen Pioneer rocket made local history in China’s remote northeastern Qinghai province, reaching a record altitude of 3,700m and setting a new regional benchmark for liquid rocket launches. Built by a five-person team led by 31-year-old Lu Yulong, the rocket took just 15 days to build in Shenzhen. Lu, a self-taught innovator...