Space Internet Technology Demonstrator (satellite)

2023: China launches internet technology test satellite into orbit

On July 9, 2023, China successfully launched the Long March 2C (Changzheng-2C) rocket. The payload was a spacecraft for testing new generation Internet technologies.

The carrier launched from the Jiuquan cosmodrome, which is located on the edge of the Badyn-Jaran desert in the lower Heihe River. The satellite was launched into a given orbit. After the necessary checks, the device will be used to test new data transmission systems. The launch of the spacecraft was the 478th flight mission for the Long March launch vehicles.

China launched a satellite into orbit to test Internet technologies

It is said that the launched satellite was created by the Chinese Academy of Space Technology. It was named the "Space Internet Technology Demonstrator." Details about the new project were not disclosed. But it is known that China is implementing a large-scale program with the code designation GW to create a satellite communication platform. This system is expected to include 12,992 satellites owned by China Satellite Network Group Co. The launch schedule for these satellites remains unknown.

In June 2023, China launched two other experimental satellites into space, which will be used to implement new Earth observation technologies, commercial remote sensing services and verification of relevant technologies.

It is noted that China's plans for satellite Internet can have serious consequences for the global Internet market. China with a large population and a growing economy is a key market for Internet companies. If China's satellite internet systems are successful, they could seriously compete for platforms like Starlink and OneWeb. It is also said that China plans to build powerful radar systems based on new technologies.^[1]

Notes