China has taken another step towards global broadband coverage, successfully launching five more satellites into orbit as part of its ambitious SatNet network, state media report.
A Chinese Long March 6A rocket has deployed five additional SatNet satellites, designed to provide worldwide internet connectivity, according to Chinese media on Thursday.
The launch took place at the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre in Shanxi Province, northern China, with all satellites successfully reaching their designated orbit.
SatNet, China’s emerging satellite internet system, aims to deliver global broadband coverage. This latest batch marks the 21st deployment of the constellation.
Managed by the China Satellite Network Group, the satellites are positioned in low Earth orbit. Once complete, the network will comprise around 13,000 satellites.
The solid-fuel, two-stage Long March 6A rocket, measuring 50 metres in length and 3.35 metres in diameter, is capable of carrying 4.5 tonnes of payload to an orbit at 700 kilometres.
