China SatNet (Guowang)
China SatNet’s national low Earth orbit internet system plans about 12,992 satellites. Deployment began in late 2024, with the aim of building a global space-based broadband network.
What if satellites could fill gaps where your phone has no signal? China SatNet’s GW constellation, also known as Guowang, is building a low-orbit internet network with a filed plan for about 12,992 satellites.
What is it?
Established in 2021, China Satellite Network Group was the first centrally administered enterprise registered in Xiong’an New Area, Hebei. China filed the associated frequency and orbital-resource applications with the International Telecommunication Union in 2020.
The plan includes subconstellations at different altitudes. Lower satellites offer shorter signal paths; higher ones cover larger areas. Together they form a layered network balancing speed and coverage.
What is it used for?
Oceans, deserts, plateaus, and remote air routes are difficult to serve with fiber and towers. GW is intended to work with terrestrial mobile networks for maritime and aviation communications, disaster response, and remote internet access.
Can ordinary phones already connect? Direct connectivity is a planned capability; actual service depends on deployment, ground networks, and terminal support. Plans should not be mistaken for universally available service.
Deployment in progress
On December 16, 2024, a Long March 5B launched the first ten operational satellites from Wenchang. A network requires many launches, followed by satellites moving into assigned positions, gradually spreading out the web.
Did you know?
Low-orbit satellites circle Earth in roughly an hour and a half rather than remaining overhead. Internet service therefore hands connections from satellite to satellite. When terminals and networks switch quickly enough, users barely notice.
