What's Happening?
China has filed plans to deploy over 200,000 internet satellites, marking one of the largest megaconstellation proposals ever. This move comes shortly after China criticized SpaceX's Starlink for causing orbital congestion. The proposed Chinese networks,
CTC-1 and CTC-2, would significantly surpass Starlink's planned 42,000 satellites. China's filings with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) suggest a strategic push to secure orbital slots and spectrum, which are limited resources. The filings include proposals from various Chinese companies, such as China Mobile and Shanghai Spacecom, aiming to establish a dominant presence in low Earth orbit.
Why It's Important?
China's ambitious satellite plans highlight the intensifying competition in space infrastructure, particularly in low Earth orbit. The deployment of such a large number of satellites could exacerbate concerns about orbital congestion and collision risks, impacting the sustainability of space operations. For the U.S., this development underscores the need to maintain its competitive edge in space technology and infrastructure, as Starlink currently holds a significant share of active satellites. The strategic nature of these filings indicates China's intent to secure a substantial portion of orbital capacity, potentially challenging U.S. dominance in space.
What's Next?
The ITU will review China's satellite filings, and if approved, China must begin deploying satellites within seven years. This timeline sets the stage for a rapid expansion of satellite networks, potentially leading to increased competition for orbital slots. The U.S. and other countries may need to respond by accelerating their own satellite deployment plans to secure orbital real estate. Additionally, international discussions on space traffic management and collision avoidance may become more urgent as the number of satellites in orbit continues to grow.
