More than thirty minutes later.
Inside the conference room at the Xia Country National Aerospace Research Institute.
At Cao Liangcai's urging, all the institute's researchers quickly took their seats.
Lü Yongchang stood before the conference table, his solemn gaze sweeping over everyone before he reached out and switched on the projector.
"Everyone, I'm sure you've all received the notice from our superiors."
"Development of the Long March 10 heavy-lift launch vehicle will cease, effective immediately."
Although everyone present had received the news the night before, sadness and reluctance still showed on every researcher's face.
After five years of research, it was no exaggeration to say that the Long March 10 heavy-lift launch vehicle project was like a child these researchers had painstakingly nurtured!
"I'm a researcher myself. I understand how painful this is for all of you."
"But I'm sure you understand Xia Country's current situation better than anyone!"
Sensing the heavy atmosphere in the conference room, Lü Yongchang drew a deep breath, then clicked the left mouse button. "Xia Country needs a more efficient means of propulsion!"
The changing light from the projector drew everyone's attention.
"Electric propulsion technology"
"Electric propulsion?!"
"This... this is impossible!"
In an instant, the conference room erupted into a clamor.
One skeptical remark after another reached Lü Yongchang's ears.
Cao Liangcai, the institute's director, looked slightly unsettled as he turned a puzzled gaze toward the composed Lü Yongchang.
"Ahem..."
As the discussion in the conference room grew louder, Cao Liangcai had no choice but to stand and clear his throat softly.
"Professor Lü, by an electric propulsion system, do you mean a Hall Thruster?"
Lü Yongchang nodded lightly, amusement flickering in his eyes. "Why? Have you done research in this area, Academician Cao?"
Cao Liangcai's pupils abruptly contracted!
*A Hall Thruster... it really was