China plans a $943M ‘megaconstellation’ with 13,000 satellites, aiming to compete with Elon Musk’s Starlink in the race for global internet coverage.
China is investing $943 million to build a satellite megaconstellation with 13,000 satellites. This ambitious project aims to rival Elon Musk’s Starlink and plug gaps in its coverage.
Why Starlink revolutionized Internet connectivity
Elon Musk’s SpaceX launched Starlink in 2019. Its low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites are positioned just 340 miles above Earth.
Traditional geostationary satellites orbit much higher at 22,236 miles. This staggering difference allows LEO satellites to deliver faster speeds and reduced latency.
Starlink has transformed internet access in remote areas. It now serves 4 million customers with over 6,000 satellites in orbit.
SpaceX plans to expand its fleet to 42,000 satellites, enhancing global broadband coverage.
China’s new Megaconstellation projects
China is now entering the satellite race. Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology (SSST) is leading the G60 satellite project.
The G60 project, with a $943 million investment, plans to launch 12,000 satellites by 2024. Like Starlink, G60 will use LEO satellites to deliver fast and reliable internet.
China SatNet is also developing a system called Guowang, meaning “national network.”
This project will support China’s growing digital economy with global broadband coverage.
The challenge of competing with Starlink
China’s megaconstellation projects aim to compete with Starlink, but they face challenges.
Starlink already operates in over 100 countries. Its network outpaces China’s planned satellites in both scale and deployment speed.
However, Starlink has limitations. It lacks an operating license in China and faces restrictions in countries like South Africa and Brazil.
China’s new projects could fill these gaps and expand their reach. Last month, SpaceSail, which oversees G60, partnered with Brazil’s Telebrás to offer satellite broadband services.
Broader implications of the Satellite Race
The satellite competition reflects broader tensions between the U.S. and China. This rivalry extends to trade and critical materials.
Last month, China banned exports of rare earth minerals like gallium and germanium. These materials are essential for EV batteries and high-tech industries.
The ban could cost the U.S. $34 million annually, escalating the economic standoff.
China’s satellite megaconstellations signal its commitment to global digital dominance.
As competition intensifies, the race for satellite supremacy continues.