Indonesian space agency dreams of launching rocket

This picture taken on Nov 19, 2019 shows a miniature test rocket taking off as Indonesia's little-known space agency, the National Institute of Aeronautics and Space (Lapan), tests equipment on barren scrubland in Lumajang, East Java. - AFP

LUMAJANG Indonesia (AFP): Workers snap the miniature rocket's wings into place as Indonesia's little-known space agency readies its latest launch on barren scrubland in East Java.

With a 3,2, 1 blast off, the two-metre-long projectile belches a trail of fire and then soars a few hundred metres before crashing in a heap -- earning a thumbs up from scientists who declared the test a success.