A sprawling, collectively written science-fiction web novel titled "The Morning Star of Lingao" (临高启明) has captivated a segment of the Chinese internet for almost two decades, yet remains largely unknown in the West due to its lack of English translation. The novel centers on Ma Qianzhu, an engineer disillusioned with China's progress, who discovers a wormhole to the late Ming Dynasty with over 500 peers.

The group commandeers a ship and travels 400 years into the past, aiming to instigate an industrial revolution in pre-industrial China, which was then beset by foreign invasion and internal strife. Their goal was to ultimately make modern China great again. The novel, totaling millions of words, explores the complexities and challenges of this ambitious endeavor.

The premise of "The Morning Star of Lingao" taps into a deep-seated desire within some segments of Chinese society to accelerate national development and reclaim a perceived historical glory. The collective writing process reflects the collaborative spirit often found in online communities, where individuals contribute their expertise and ideas to a shared project.

The novel's obscurity in the West highlights the language barrier and cultural differences that can limit the exchange of ideas and narratives. While science fiction often explores universal themes, the specific historical and cultural context of "The Morning Star of Lingao" may require a deeper understanding of Chinese history and society to fully appreciate.

As of now, there are no confirmed plans for an official English translation of "The Morning Star of Lingao." However, fan translations and online discussions continue to introduce the novel to a wider audience, potentially paving the way for greater recognition in the future.