Starlink vs Qianfan: Fierce US-China Duel Over Internet Hegemony and New Threats to Astronomy

JAKARTA – The sky above us is no longer just empty space. However, it has become a new arena of competition between two superpowers: the United States and China.

These two countries are competing to fill the Earth’s orbit with thousands of satellites, creating a “megaconstellation” that guarantees global Internet access and connects all corners of the world.

However, behind these technological achievements, there are growing concerns about their impact on astronomy and space security.

Starlink: SpaceX’s satellite internet pioneer

SpaceX, Elon Musk’s space company, has been a pioneer in this race with its ambitious Starlink project. With more than 6,000 satellites orbiting the Earth, Starlink has changed the face of the global Internet.

This satellite network offers broadband internet access to remote and rural areas that were previously inaccessible with conventional internet infrastructure.

Qianfan: China’s Answer to Starlink

Not to be outdone, China launched its own response with the Qianfan project (also known as the G60). Developed by Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology (SSST), this megaconstellation is expected to contain nearly 14,000 satellites that will provide Internet and multimedia services worldwide.

The launch of Qianfan’s first 18 satellites in August 2024 marks the beginning of China’s ambitions to challenge Starlink’s dominance.

Hegemonic Competition in Space

The race between Starlink and Qianfan reflects the broader competition between the US and China for hegemony in several areas, including technology and space. Satellite megaconstellations not only offer great economic potential, but also have strategic implications in the areas of military and national security.

Threats to Astronomy

However, the proliferation of satellites in Earth’s orbit is also causing growing concern among astronomers. The thousands of satellites reflecting sunlight can interfere with astronomical observations, creating “light pollution” that obstructs scientists’ view of the universe.

In addition, there are still many side effects that need to be considered. For example, in terms of location security. The growing number of satellites increases the risk of accidents and the creation of space debris that could damage other satellites and even the space station.

Although megaconstellations guarantee global Internet access, there are concerns that this technology will widen the digital gap between developed and developing countries.

Then, satellite megaconstellations also raise questions about cyber sovereignty and control of global information flows.

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