China sent the fifth group of satellites into space, which will become part of the Cianfan network, created in a low near -earth orbit as a competitor to the American Starlink from SpaceX.
According to the statement of the Chinese Corporation of aerospace science and technology (CASC), a group of 18 satellites was launched using the Long March-8 Y6 launch vehicle from a commercial cosmodrome on Hainan Island.
The launch, during which the satellites reached the specified orbital positions, became the 563rd successful mission for missiles Long march.
Spacecom (SSST) SSCECOM (SSST) Shanghai Cienfan apparatus will be part of a satellite network created in a low -earth orbit.
At the first stage of the project, also known as “G60 Starlink”, it is planned to bring 1296 satellites into orbit, and ultimately the network should consist of 14 thousand devices providing broadband Internet.
Previously, similar groups of 18 satellites were launched on August 6 and October 15, 2024, December 5, 2024, as well as January 23, 2025.
Satellite networks, like Starlink and Zianfan, cause disputes due to the possible overload of low near-earth orbit and the formation of space garbage after the completion of their service life.