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China has taken its first major step toward building a global satellite internet network. It launched the initial batch of satellites for its “Thousand Sails” constellation. The project aims to deploy over 15,000 low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to provide global internet coverage by 2030. This will compete with SpaceX’s Starlink.
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In a recent launch, Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology successfully sent 18 satellites into orbit aboard a Long March 6A carrier rocket. The mission was launched from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in Shanxi Province. The event marked a significant milestone in China’s ambitious plans to create a vast LEO satellite network.
According to Chinese state media, this first phase will see 648 satellites deployed by 2025. This aims to establish the foundation for the full constellation. The final goal is to create a network of 15,000 satellites by the end of the decade. Ultimately, providing worldwide internet coverage.
The “Thousand Sails” constellation is seen as China’s direct response to Elon Musk’s Starlink, which currently operates around 6,000 satellites and aims to reach 42,000 in the coming years. This Chinese initiative reflects the growing global competition in space-based internet services, as both nations strive to dominate the satellite communications industry.
The Chinese Academy of Sciences hailed the mission as a complete success. It said this would further boost China’s space ambitions as it seeks to become a leader in the rapidly expanding satellite internet market.
