China has launched its first batch of satellites for the Guowang constellation, but their purpose remains shrouded in secrecy.
On December 16, China successfully launched the first ten satellites for the Guowang constellation using a Long March 5B rocket from the Wenchang spaceport. The project, also known as the ‘national net,’ aims to establish a vast satellite network. Despite this significant development, details about the satellites, including their size, mass, and specific capabilities, remain undisclosed.
The ambiguity surrounding the Guowang satellites stands in stark contrast to other projects like the Thousand Sails constellation, which has been more forthcoming about its specifications. The limited number of satellites launched, despite the high payload capacity of the Long March 5B, further adds to the intrigue. Victoria Samson, Space Security and Stability Director at the Secure World Foundation, speculates that these satellites might serve purposes beyond space-based internet. This speculation is fueled by historical reports suggesting that similar satellite networks could potentially support military operations.
Samson made reference to a 2022 article in the official Chinese military newspaper, Liberation Army Daily, which discussed the role of satellite networks like Starlink in supporting military efforts, including reconnaissance and navigation. The Guowang satellites, although primarily intended for connectivity, might have additional functionalities. This raises questions about their role in geopolitical and defense contexts.
Technical challenges could also explain the lack of transparency. According to Samson, the difficulties in making satellites compact enough for efficient stacking, similar to Starlink and Thousand Sails, might be a contributing factor. Moreover, the operational altitudes of Guowang satellites, which range from 1,098 to 1,127 kilometers, echo those of the Oneweb constellation rather than the more expansive Starlink and Thousand Sails networks.
The situation brings to light broader issues concerning space traffic management. As megaconstellations from various countries take to the skies, the need for dialogue and coordination is more pressing than ever. Samson emphasizes the importance of communication between spacefaring nations to prevent potential conflicts and ensure safe satellite operations.
The upcoming second launch of Guowang satellites might provide more insights into their functions and technological details. Meanwhile, the current lack of clarity underscores the potential implications for global satellite communication strategies, the use of low Earth orbit, and international space policy.
While China’s Guowang launch marks a technological leap, the opacity surrounding the project prompts significant questions about its true scope and intentions. As the international community watches closely, the need for transparency and cooperation in space endeavors becomes ever more critical.
Source: Spacenews
