Science News Roundup: Private Chinese firm scores first with liquid-propellant rocket launch

Following is a summary of current science news briefs. Private Chinese firm scores first with liquid-propellant rocket launch Beijing Tianbing Technology Co on Sunday successfully launched a kerosene-oxygen rocket, becoming the first private Chinese launch company to send a liquid-propellant rocket into space and taking another step towards developing reusable rockets.

Following is a summary of current science news briefs.

Private Chinese firm scores first with liquid-propellant rocket launch

Beijing Tianbing Technology Co on Sunday successfully launched a kerosene-oxygen rocket, becoming the first private Chinese launch company to send a liquid-propellant rocket into space and taking another step towards developing reusable rockets. Chinese commercial space firms have rushed into the sector since 2014, when private investment in the industry was allowed by the state. Many started making satellites while others including Beijing Tianbing focused on developing reusable rockets that can significantly cut mission costs.

(With inputs from agencies.)