Table of Contents
Introduction
In a significant leap forward, China has unveiled the first satellite for its G60 Starlink low Earth orbit communications mega constellation. This ambitious project, managed by Shanghai Geis Aerospace Technology (Genesat), marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s space endeavors. Set to launch approximately 108 satellites by 2024, the G60 Starlink aims to join the competitive arena of low-cost, high-throughput, and reliable communication networks.
The Genesis of China G60 Starlink
The G60 Starlink’s inaugural satellite emerged from the state-of-the-art G60 digital satellite production factory in Shanghai’s Songjiang District on December 27. This facility, managed by Genesat, was established in 2022 through collaboration between the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Innovation Academy for Microsatellites (IAMCAS) and Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology.
Interestingly, Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology was previously involved in the KLEO Connect constellation project—a Chinese-European joint venture that concluded in acrimony and ongoing legal disputes. Genesat has recently secured funding from investment vehicles associated with both the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Shanghai government.
Technical Blueprint of G60 Starlink
Documentation filed with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in April sheds light on the G60 Starlink project’s technical specifics. Envisaged across 36 polar orbital planes, housing 36 satellites each, the mega constellation will ultimately comprise 1,296 spacecraft operating in the Ku, Q, and V bands. These satellites boast attributes such as low latency, modularity, and high reliability, aligning with the overarching goal of providing global broadband access services.
Image Source: spacenews.com
Shanghai’s Space Ecosystem Advancement
The satellite manufacturing center, inaugurated this year, stands as a testament to China’s commitment to space innovation. With a production capacity of 300 satellites annually, it not only promises increased satellite output but also claims to reduce the cost per satellite by 35%, albeit without a specified reference point.
Aligned with the broader Yangtze River Delta G60 Science and Technology Innovation Corridor, the G60 Starlink project is a crucial component of Shanghai’s strategy to establish a commercial space ecosystem by 2025. This initiative aims to encompass satellites, launch vehicles, applications, and infrastructure, with targets set for the annual production of 50 commercial rockets and 600 commercial satellites.
The Growing Landscape of Chinese Small Satellite Manufacturing
The rise of G60 Starlink is indicative of a broader surge in Chinese small satellite manufacturing capacity in recent years. State-owned entities under the Chinese Aerospace Corporation (CASC) and the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC), alongside commercial firms like Galaxy Space and IAMCAS, contribute to this flourishing landscape. Additionally, the emergence of ASPACE in Hong Kong further solidifies China’s foothold in small satellite technology.
G60 Starlink vs. Guowang: A Tale of Two Mega constellations
G60 Starlink is not China’s only foray into low Earth orbit communications mega-constellations. The establishment of the China Satellite Network Group in 2021 initiated the national Guowang (SatNet) project, comprising a massive 13,000 satellites. However, the race to supremacy between G60 Starlink and Guowang remains uncertain, with experimental satellite internet spacecraft launches adding intrigue to the evolving narrative. China’s strategies for deploying satellites amassed involve potential avenues such as the Long March 5B rocket with a Yuanzheng-2 upper stage or the expendable Long March 8, optimized for mass production. Concurrently, new commercial launch pads on Hainan Island are under construction, aiming to alleviate launch access bottlenecks and become operational by 2024.
Image Source: newsbytesapp.com
Global Implications of Mega Constellation Competition
The emergence of competing communications mega constellations carries global implications, promising enhanced internet connectivity in remote and underserved areas. While this development could stimulate economic activity and improve global health, it also raises concerns about national security, surveillance, and technological dominance. Additionally, the surge in projects, launches, and satellites in low Earth orbit amplifies challenges related to space traffic management and orbital space debris.
Conclusion
As China propels itself into the forefront of low Earth orbit communications, the G60 Starlink project stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to space exploration and innovation. The competition with other mega constellations introduces a new era in global internet connectivity, with potential benefits and challenges that extend far beyond the boundaries of our atmosphere.
