China begins launching a “constellation” of 300 satellites into space to form a communication and observation network

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China começa a lançar “constelação” de 300 satélites ao espaço para formar rede de comunicação e observaçãoChina begins launching a “constellation” of 300 satellites into space to form a communication and observation network (X @RadekPyffel)

China has taken an important step toward creating a satellite network in very low Earth orbit (VLEO), after successfully testing the experimental satellite Chutian-001.

Launched a year ago, the satellite demonstrated capabilities such as precise control in low orbits, high-resolution imaging, and space environment monitoring. Its aerodynamic shape, similar to a bullet, helps reduce atmospheric drag, one of the main challenges for operating below 300 km altitude.

The project, led by the state-owned company CASIC in partnership with the government of Hubei Province, aims to launch a constellation of 300 satellites by 2030, in three phases. After the test satellite, a group of nine satellites will be launched between 2024 and 2025 for validation. Starting in 2026, the expansion phase will provide continuous global coverage and various types of imagery, with a response time of up to 15 minutes. After 2030, the goal is to reduce the response time to under 10 minutes.

The Chutian constellation will have multiple civil and commercial applications, such as disaster response, environmental management, agriculture, autonomous navigation, and urban monitoring. With high revisit frequency and intelligent data analysis, the satellites promise near real-time updates and broader public access to remote sensing-based services.

Source: South China Morning Post | Photo: X @RadekPyffel | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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