Chinese space firm builds wooden rocket nose cone for cheaper, frequent launches

Chinese commercial space firm Light Year Explorer has manufactured a rocket fairing with a wooden outer skin as part of the company’s push for lower-cost, mass-produced launch vehicles.

The design of the protective shell uses low-density plywood formed into a smooth aerodynamic curve, supported by an internal metal framework to bear loads, according to the Jiangsu-based company.

“This configuration matches traditional composite fairings in key performance areas such as weight, structural...