China Achieves Breakthrough in Satellite Laser Communication Speed

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In a significant advancement for satellite communications, China has achieved a landmark data transmission rate of 100 gigabits per second (Gbps) in satellite-to-ground laser communication. This development, announced by Chang Guang Satellite Technology on January 2, 2025, marks a tenfold increase from their previous record and positions China ahead of the competition, specifically Elon Musk's Starlink.

The data transfer was successfully conducted between a mobile, truck-based ground station and one satellite from the Jilin-1 constellation, which is touted as the world's largest sub-meter commercial remote sensing satellite network. This new technology presents a more efficient method of transmitting large amounts of data back to Earth, reducing bottlenecks associated with traditional methods.

"We plan to deploy these laser communication units across all satellites in the Jilin-1 constellation to improve their efficiency," said Wang Hanghang, head of laser communication ground station technology at Chang Guang. The company aims to have a network of 300 satellites operational by 2027.

While Starlink has initiated plans for inter-satellite laser communications, Chang Guang's project marks a significant move towards practical satellite-to-ground transfer. The achievement could enhance China's capabilities in navigation, 6G internet, and remote sensing, indicating a growing influence in the global technology landscape.

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