China achieved a milestone in space technology by launching 18 advanced communications satellites from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center. Weighing a total of 4.8 metric tons, these satellites are part of the Qianfan network, designed to revolutionize global broadband services. Crafted by SpaceSail, this network aims to deploy 10,000 satellites by 2030. Renowned expert Yang Yuguang praised the advantages of low-orbit satellites, highlighting China's commitment to space innovation.
China successfully launched a cluster of 18 cutting-edge communications satellites from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in Shanxi province, marking a significant leap in the nation's space endeavors. The plate-shaped satellites, weighing a total of 4.8 metric tons, represent the maiden deployment of the Qianfan network, a revolutionary project aimed at revolutionizing global broadband internet services. Lifted into space by a Long March 6A rocket, the satellites swiftly reached their designated orbit shortly after the 2:42 pm liftoff.
Crafted by the innovative minds at Shanghai's SpaceSail, the Qianfan network promises to deliver high-speed, secure, and dependable internet connectivity to users worldwide. Envisioned to encompass up to 10,000 satellites by the close of 2030, this constellation, formerly known as the G60 network, is poised to redefine satellite-based communications on a grand scale.
The initial batch of 18 satellites was meticulously engineered by the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Innovation Academy for Microsatellites in Shanghai, a pioneer in the field that has already secured contracts for an additional 306 satellites within the Qianfan network. As per the ambitious roadmap, a total of 648 satellites are slated for deployment by the end of the following year, setting the stage for the inaugural iteration of the Qianfan network, hailed by some as China's equivalent to SpaceX's Starlink constellation.
Renowned space industry expert Yang Yuguang, a distinguished figure in Beijing and vice-chairman of the International Astronautical Federation's Space Transportation Committee, emphasized the advantages of low-orbiting satellites over their high-altitude counterparts. He highlighted the capability of these satellites to swiftly respond to users' demands and provide extensive coverage, especially in regions with high latitudes, making them an ideal choice for space-based internet networks.
However, Yang acknowledged the formidable challenges involved in managing a vast low-orbit satellite system, emphasizing the necessity of cutting-edge technologies to ensure the precise positioning of a large satellite fleet and the availability of reusable carrier rockets to facilitate cost-effective launches. He commended the concerted efforts of both state-owned and private rocket manufacturers in China, who are striving to develop reusable rockets to meet the escalating demands of satellite enterprises.
The Long March 6A rocket, a creation of the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology, stands as a versatile medium-lift launch vehicle, comprising a liquid-propelled core booster measuring 50 meters in length and four solidfuel side boosters. Fitted with two 120-ton-thrust engines powered by liquid oxygen and kerosene, the core booster, with a diameter of 3.35 meters, boasts a liftoff weight of 530 tons. Tasked with delivering satellites to an array of orbits, including sun-synchronous, low-Earth, and intermediate circular orbits, this rocket exemplifies China's commitment to advancing its space exploration capabilities to new heights.
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