China’s rare earth weakness, new rocket to rival SpaceX: 7 science highlights

SCMP | July 15, 2026, 12:30 a.m. | Original

From China unveiling microwave weapons to top neurobiologist leaving US, here are some highlights from SCMP’s recent science reporting

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A mine in Baotou, Inner Mongolia, a part of China’s vast rare earth mining industry. But new study says the country’s “international patent layout remains insufficient”. Photo: AP

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A communications satellite equipped with the 750 newton test engine takes off from the Wenchang launch site in southern China on board a modified version of the Long March-7 rocket on June 23. Photo: Xinhua
A communications satellite equipped with the 750 newton test engine takes off from the Wenchang launch site in southern China on board a modified version of the Long March-7 rocket on June 23. Photo: Xinhua

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