China Launches Powerful New Rocket, Aiming for Starlink Rival
China is taking another step towards dominating the space race, with the successful launch of its newest rocket, the Long March 12.
Soaring from Wenchang spaceport on Hainan Island late Tuesday night, the 200-foot tall rocket carried two undisclosed “technology test satellites” into orbit. The launch marks a significant advancement in China’s ambitions to build massive satellite internet constellations, with aims to rival Elon Musk’s Starlink and bring internet access to the most remote corners of the globe.
What sets the Long March 12 apart is its wider body, compared to China’s previous rockets. "A wider body means the rocket can hold about 30 per cent more propellant, giving it much enhanced carrying capacity,” explained Wu Jialin, an engineer with the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology, which developed the rocket.
This increased capability allows the Long March 12 to deliver an impressive 12 tonnes of payload to low Earth orbit, and over 6 tonnes to a sun-synchronous orbit, according to Wu.
This impressive lift capacity is key to China’s plans for “Qianfan” and “Guowang,” two ambitious megaconstellations aimed at deploying over 13,000 satellites each. These networks are designed to provide internet connectivity to underserved areas in China and beyond, directly challenging Starlink’s dominance in the international market.
The launch of the Long March 12 is just one piece of the puzzle in China’s ambitious space program. By developing powerful rockets and investing in innovative technologies, China is positioning itself as a major player in the growing commercial space industry.
## China’s long March 12: A Giant Leap towards challenging Starlink’s Dominance?
China has launched its powerful new Long March 12 rocket, showcasing its growing ambitions in the global space race. This prosperous launch, which deployed two undisclosed satellites, marks a significant step towards China’s goal of creating massive satellite internet constellations that could challenge Elon Musk’s Starlink. To delve deeper into the implications of this advancement, World Today news sat down with two leading experts in the field.
Dr. Anya Ivanova, a Senior Research Fellow at the International Institute for Space Law and Policy, brings her expertise on international space regulations and the commercial space industry. Joining her is Dr. Martin Leung, a renowned aerospace engineer and former lead engineer at SpaceX, who offers valuable insights into rocket technology and satellite constellation development.
This interview explores the Long March 12’s capabilities, the potential impact on the global satellite internet market, and the larger strategic goals behind China’s burgeoning space program.
### Boosting Payload Capacity: A Game Changer for China’s Megaconstellations
**World Today News:** Dr. Leung, the Long March 12 boasts a substantially larger payload capacity compared to China’s previous rockets. What does this mean practically for China’s satellite internet ambitions?
**Dr. Leung:** This is a major leap forward. The Long March 12 can deliver over 12 tonnes to low Earth orbit, which is crucial for deploying large numbers of satellites quickly and cost-effectively.This increased capacity significantly ramps up China’s ability to build its planned “Qianfan” and “Guowang” megaconstellations, with thousands of satellites each.
**World Today News:** Dr. Ivanova, how does this increased launch capacity play into the international landscape of satellite internet providers?
**Dr. Ivanova:** it introduces a major new player into the market. Starlink currently enjoys a significant first-mover advantage, but China’s scale and ambition, coupled with its goverment backing, pose a serious challenge.
### Closing the Connectivity Gap: Serving Underserved Regions
**World Today News:** Dr. Ivanova, what are the potential implications of these megaconstellations for global internet access?
**Dr. Ivanova:** The goal of these constellations is to provide internet access to remote and underserved regions. This could be transformative, notably in developing countries where terrestrial infrastructure is lacking.
**World Today News:** Dr.Leung, are there any foreseeable technical challenges that China might face in achieving its ambitious goals?
**Dr. leung:** Challenges undoubtedly exist. Managing and coordinating thousands of satellites is a complex undertaking.
Ensuring seamless interaction and minimizing space debris will be crucial for the sustainable operation of such large constellations.
### power Play in Space: China’s Broader Strategic Goals
**World Today News:** Dr. Ivanova, China’s development of powerful rockets like the Long March 12 goes beyond just satellite internet.What are the broader strategic implications of these advancements?
**Dr. Ivanova:** This is part of a larger strategy to establish China as a leading spacefaring nation. It demonstrates technological prowess, enhances national security capabilities, and positions China for future endeavors like lunar and Mars exploration.
“China’s space ambitions represent a paradigm shift in the global space industry,” says Dr.Leung, adding, “Expect to see intensified competition and a rapid acceleration of innovation in the coming years.”
**Key Takeaways:**
China’s Long March 12 launch signals its serious intent to become a dominant force in the satellite internet market. With increased payload capacity and ambitious constellation plans, China is poised to challenge Starlink’s dominance and possibly bridge the global digital divide.
**What are your thoughts on China’s growing space ambitions? Share your comments below!**
**Related Articles:**
* **The race to space: A Look at the New Competitors Challenging SpaceX**
* **Satellite Internet: The Future of Connectivity?**
* **China’s Lunar Exploration Program: Reaching for the Moon**
