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With a billion-dollar investment, China plans to launch 13.000 satellites into low orbit by 2024, challenging the Starlink network, which already has more than 6.000 satellites and serves 4 million customers in more than 100 countries.
The race to dominate space is no longer just a dispute between military superpowers, but also a battle for connectivity. China, with its ambitious plan to launch 13.000 satellites, wants to enter the satellite internet game once and for all, directly competing with Elon Musk's Starlink. The question that remains is: can the Asian giant beat the pioneer SpaceX?
With an impressive investment of US$943 million, the G60 project is the bet of Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology (SSST) to compete in the global connectivity market. The goal is clear: a robust, low-latency, high-speed network using satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO).
What is China's G60 project and how does it work?
The G60 project seeks to bring internet to remote regions and connect billions of people, using LEO satellite technology, which orbit approximately 550 km from Earth.
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Unlike geostationary satellites, LEO satellites orbit closer to Earth, reducing latency and increasing efficiency. This is crucial for delivering high-quality internet services in areas where terrestrial infrastructure is limited or non-existent.
In addition to improving latency, the G60 promises greater range in hard-to-reach regions and more stable connections. China also plans to use this technology to further integrate its digital economy.
Guowang: Another Chinese initiative in the satellite market
It’s not just the G60 that’s attracting attention. The Guowang system, also under development, reinforces China’s strategic interest in leading the satellite internet market.
The Guowang aims to offer global coverage and consolidate China’s position as a technology hub. More than just connectivity, this network promises to be a pillar for the country’s data security and digital independence.
To expand their operations, companies like SpaceSail, involved in the G60, have already signed agreements with countries like Brazil. Despite this, entering markets dominated by Starlink will not be easy.
Competition with Starlink: Technological and market rivalry
While Starlink has more than 6.000 active satellites and serves millions of customers, Chinese megaconstellations find their advantage in markets where Starlink faces restrictions, such as China itself.
Starlink plans to launch up to 42.000 satellites in the coming years, but faces regulatory hurdles in some countries. That limitation opens the door for Chinese projects.
With strategic partnerships and bilateral agreements, Chinese companies can fill gaps in regions like Latin America and Africa where Starlink's presence is limited.
The strategic relevance of megaconstellations
Megaconstellations are not only a technological breakthrough, but also a geopolitical and economic asset.
These satellites are essential for bringing internet to isolated regions, such as rural communities and hard-to-reach areas. This can transform local economies and reduce digital inequalities.
The competition between China and the United States in the satellite sector reflects a larger struggle for global technological leadership. Whoever dominates this market will have not only economic influence, but also strategic influence.
With projects like the G60 and Guowang, China is determined to challenge Elon Musk's Starlink. The competition promises to benefit consumers around the world by offering more choices and better services.
We hope that this fight between technology giants will contribute to better global education, and especially to reducing social inequality in each country.
Well, if it's until 2024, there are less than 15 days to launch the 13000 satellites.
These Chinese are a bunch of cool givers.