China is preparing to launch the first satellites for the national low-orbit broadband mega-constellation of communications satellites. In this respect informs space news.
SpaceX’s Starlink system consists of thousands of vehicles in low Earth orbit, allowing it to maintain high-speed satellite Internet connectivity with low ping. The Chinese Guowang project involves placing 13,000 satellites in similar orbits to create a national Chinese communications system. It is often advertised as an analogue of Starlink.
Now, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), China’s main space contractor, has said that the first satellites of the Guowang system will go into space on the Long March 5B rocket in the second half of 2023. The launch will be carried out from the Wenchang cosmodrome using the Yuanzheng-2 upper stage. In addition to CASC, the Microsatellite Innovation Academy (IAMCAS), part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, will also be involved in satellite production. IAMCAS is expected to deliver the first 30 satellites for the project by the end of the year, and a number of other companies have already expressed their willingness to join the project.
American space internet companies have expressed concerns about the potential competitive threat from the Chinese low-earth constellation created with active government support. A report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies said the United States “could lose its competitive edge”. It will be more difficult for Western operators to win in the fight, especially in countries with political ties to China.