12-year-old wins two honors at national rocket competition

This year's event brought together 825 contestants from 155 teams representing 27 provincial-level regions. Competitors designed and prepared their own rockets, including selecting and polishing materials, adjusting weight, and improving recovery systems.

"Wind speed, airflow, and launch angle can all affect the result," said Zheng Lingjia, Chen's coach. "The events test both technical skills and the ability to respond to changing conditions."

Chen's interest in aerospace began at an early age. Her father, Chen Feng, is a search and rescue team member who has participated in support operations related to China's Shenzhou crewed spacecraft. Chen said her father often showed her videos of rocket and spacecraft launches when she was young.