A rocket blasts off from the offshore rocket launch vessel. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_8455931f4eab]

An offshore rocket launch vessel designed by Professor Teng Yao from Ludong University has claimed the top spot in the 2024 list of the top 10 technological innovations in Shandong province.

The vessel is the world's only multi-functional ship dedicated to sea-based aerospace launch and recovery, capable of meeting various rocket launch requirements.

Teng, responsible for conceptualization and proposal, led the construction of a support system centered around the offshore rocket launch vessel, achieving a groundbreaking fusion of marine engineering and aerospace technology.

Under Teng’s guidance, a team from Ludong University successfully built the ship, which is at the international forefront in terms of near and far-sea launch flexibility and capacity for multi-rocket launches.

To date, the ship has conducted six launch missions, placing 35 satellites into orbit.

The annual selection of Shandong province's top 10 technological innovations covers various fields including basic research, next-generation information technology, high-end equipment, modern marine technology, new energy, medical care and health, high-end chemicals, and new materials, representing the latest achievements and highest standards of technological innovation in Shandong.