SpaceX’s Starlink isn’t alone in using space lasers to beam internet data. A Chinese firm is leveraging the same concept for space-to-ground transmissions with a surveillance bent.
Chang Guang Satellite Technology Co. recently sustained a 100Gbps data connection using lasers from an orbiting satellite. This allowed the company to transmit images of the Forbidden City in Beijing and what looks like an airport in Doha, Qatar, from the satellite to a vehicle on Earth outfitted with special receivers.
(Credit: Chang Guang Satellite)
As the South China Morning Post notes, the achievement highlights how China is potentially beating SpaceX on laser technology. SpaceX has only used optical lasers to transmit data in space—between satellites and even spacecraft—rather than powering internet connections for users on the ground. Starlink satellites use radio waves to deliver internet data to customers on Earth, although the company has experimented with laser communications to the ground.
Chang Guang Satellite says its latest breakthrough shows how lasers could further upgrade satellite-based internet connectivity. “This technology aims to overcome bottlenecks in data transmission and user connectivity, offering broader spectrum resources and higher data rates. It will play a key role in advancing from 5G NTN (non-terrestrial networks) to 6G satellite internet development,” the company says.
(Credit: Change Guang Satellite)
Although lasers are adept at transmitting information in the cold vacuum of space, the same lasers can struggle to penetrate the Earth’s atmosphere, including clouds and rain, while requiring a direct line of sight to the receiver. However, Chang Guang Satellite says it overcame “multiple technical challenges,” including the Earth’s atmosphere, when developing its own laser tech.
“These advancements addressed key issues such as signal distortion caused by atmospheric turbulence, frequency drift resulting from high-speed relative motion between satellite and ground, weak light signal detection, and high-precision beam tracking,” the company added.
Chang Guang Satellite is also hinting that the laser system could be used to transmit even more data for surveillance purposes. The company, which develops “remote sensing” satellites with video and imaging capabilities, has reportedly been in talks with Iran about a partnership.
Recommended by Our Editors
“Compared to existing remote sensing satellites, next-generation high-resolution satellites will generate several times more data, with image data production rates reaching tens of Gbps,” Chang Guang Satellite noted in the announcement.
The company currently has 108 active satellites in orbit.
Get Our Best Stories!
This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links.
By clicking the button, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our
Terms of Use and
Privacy Policy.
You may unsubscribe from the newsletters at any time.
About Michael Kan
Senior Reporter
