New TV series focuses on China's nuclear and space programs

Speaking about the plot of the series, Tie says that as the original story had a tragic ending and unfolded a bit slowly, he sent the story to other writers to be revised.

He finally approved the version rewritten by Wang Zhili, known for The Love of Courtyard, which looks back on Beijing's hutong lifestyle.

Meanwhile, the producers of The Glory and the Dream also acquired footage of missile launches from the 1960s and the 1970s, from a number of sources, including the China Central Newsreel and Documentary Film Studio, to lend a touch of authenticity to the series.

Veteran actor Yang Shuo and actresses Su Qing and Lian Shumei play the lead roles in the series. The drama was shot in Sichuan province at several locations which were once factories manufacturing components and parts for rockets and missiles.

"We also created a lot of props - including several lifesize replicas of missiles - which were transported by 12 trucks to a warehouse covering an area of more than 1,000 square meters," says Tie.

Separately, he says that most of the major characters are based on real-life people.

For instance, the character of Minister Qiao is based on Qian Xuesen, a prominent aerodynamics and cybernetics expert who is regarded as the "Father of China's Space Program".

When asked if there were concerns that this theme may not be popular with youngsters, who often prefer fantasy or historical dramas, Tie says he believes any work that reminds people of one of the most import chapters in Chinese history will never be "outdated".