Researchers working to extend rocket life spans

As China pushes forward its lunar and deep-space exploration programs, engineers are striving to improve the capabilities of rockets to better serve the nation's extraterrestrial aspirations.

One breakthrough by a Chinese engineer does not look fancy - it involves foam insulation - but it is expected to significantly extend a carrier rocket's service in space, enabling more distant missions or complex in-orbit operations.

Zhang Shaohua, a senior researcher of cryogenic rocket engine technology at the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology in Beijing, said on Friday that the program is intended to develop a cutting-edge solution to reduce the evaporation of fuels in cryogenic rocket engines.