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China launches first satellites for GuoWang project to rival SpaceX’s Starlink

The 13,000-satellite megaconstellation aims to provide global broadband internet coverage

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The first of the GuoWang megaconstellation satellites have been launched atop a Long March-5B rocket from Wenchang Space Launch Site in southern China. Photo: Xinhua
Ling Xinin OhioandVictoria Belain Hong Kong
China has launched the first satellites for its GuoWang megaconstellation, intensifying the race for space-based broadband internet services both domestically and internationally.
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A group of satellites lifted off aboard a Long March-5B rocket coupled with the Yuanzheng-2 upper stage from southern China’s Wenchang spaceport at 6pm and later reached their designated low-Earth orbit, according to state news agency Xinhua.

The satellites have entered into their predetermined orbit and the mission has been declared a success.

Chinese state media did not immediately announce the number of satellites that were launched on Monday.

GuoWang, meaning “national network”, first came to light in 2020 when China submitted filings with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for a constellation of nearly 13,000 satellites.

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Often seen as China’s answer to SpaceX’s Starlink, GuoWang aims to provide global broadband internet coverage while meeting China’s national security objectives.
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