By Yuling Chen, EDITOR

China is gaining breakthrough in aerial 5G network.

According to Dongfanghong Satellite Mobile Communication Co., Ltd., the first test satellite of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) Hongyan Constellation named Chongqing has been successfully launched in Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on December 29, 2018.

The first test satellite of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation's Hongyan Constellation named Chongqing has been successfully launched in Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on December 29, 2018. (Photo from Chongqing Daily)

Carried by CZ-2D/YZ-3, this satellite signals the establishment of Hongyan Project in a comprehensive way.

The project is also known as the global Low Earth Orbit (LEO) mobile satellite communication and internet space system. Moreover, Dongfanghong Satellite Mobile Communication, according to CASC, was founded to be in charge of the project. The project has drawn an investment of about RMB 20 billion for its first phase.

Why named Chongqing?

The LEO mobile satellite communication and internet space system represent one project with the largest contract value signed at the Smart China Expo 2018.  Moreover, Chongqing Liangjiang New Area is home to its global headquarters, including the operation center, talent training base, and the supporting industrial park. It's China’s first independent global mobile satellite communication and internet space project. Moreover, it should be market-oriented, professional, industrialized and international. Moreover, based on an efficient business model, the project will fuel the whole industrial chain valuing hundreds of billions of yuan.

China Academy of Space Technology was the one who developed the first test satellite, “Chongqing”. It will be used to conduct L-/Ka-band tests, as well as in-orbit verification of navigation systems and other key technologies. Additionally, with ground-based systems and terminals, the satellite can test mobile satellite communication, IoT, hotspot information broadcast and navigation signal enhancement. Furthermore, these will effectively support the comprehensive development and operation of Hongyan Constellation.

Data showed that Internet penetration didn’t exceed 50% until 2015 in China, while it was lower than that in 2018 internationally. Remote mountainous regions, deserts, and oceans still cannot get to the communication network.

Hongyan  Constellation will utterly change this situation. In addition, it can help realize global two-way communication in real time under complicated geological conditions 24 hours a day upon completion. Therefore, users in the ocean, the South and North Poles, rural areas and mountainous regions can be all connected.

Source: Chongqing Daily

Relevant links: