Travel in space poised to spread its wings

Chinese space scientists are developing a cutting-edge aerospace vehicle that, if successful, will enable the public to make space journeys.

Researchers at the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology are developing a spacecraft that will be propelled by a combination of turbine engine, ramjet and rocket engine, according to the academy, which is part of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp.

Zhang Yong, deputy chief designer at the academy's research and development center, said the spacecraft will use turbine engines, like those on planes, or rocket-based combined-cycle engines when it takes off from a conventional runway.