China is intensifying its technological competition with Western nations, focusing on innovations ranging from artificial intelligence to clean energy, and is now turning its attention to satellite internet. Researchers from Peking University and the Chinese Academy of Sciences have developed a “groundbreaking” satellite communication system designed to rival SpaceX’s Starlink network.
The Chinese system achieved a data transmission speed of 1 Gbps using an extremely low-power 2-watt laser, a notable improvement in energy efficiency compared with the higher power requirements of Starlink’s radio transmissions. Unlike Starlink, which primarily uses lasers for satellite-to-satellite communication, the Chinese technology beams the laser directly to ground stations. This approach historically faced challenges from atmospheric interference caused by rain, smog, and other environmental factors.
To overcome these obstacles, the researchers implemented an innovative infrastructure called “AO-MDR synergy.” By splitting the laser signal into multiple channels and recombining them at the ground station using specialized chips, the system increased signal reliability from 72% to over 91%, maintaining high data speeds even under turbulent atmospheric conditions.
The Chinese satellite system also addresses the growing problem of orbital congestion. Starlink operates in low Earth orbit at approximately 550 kilometers, contributing to space debris and light pollution that affects astronomical observation. In contrast, the Chinese satellites operate from high geostationary orbit at over 36,000 kilometers, a much less crowded region of space. This high-altitude placement reduces collision risks and offers a more astronomy-friendly alternative to the thousands of radio-based LEO satellites currently in operation.
If commercialized, China’s laser-based, high-orbit satellite internet could provide faster, more energy-efficient connectivity while mitigating space debris and light pollution. With NASA, Japan, and other space agencies also exploring similar laser communication technologies, high-speed satellite internet is emerging as a critical area of global competition and innovation in space-based connectivity.
