China has successfully launched the 14th group of its low-orbit internet satellites, further accelerating the construction of the nation’s space-based internet system and strengthening its digital infrastructure from orbit. The launch took place at 3:53 pm on Saturday from the Hainan International Commercial Aerospace Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan Province, according to China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC).
The satellites were independently designed and manufactured by the China Academy of Space Technology, a core subsidiary of CASC based in Beijing. They were carried into space by the Long March 8A carrier rocket and smoothly entered their planned orbital positions after launch, marking another high-precision deployment for China’s expanding satellite network.
Nearly 100 Satellites Deployed in One Year as Networking Accelerates
So far this year, China has launched around 100 low-orbit internet satellites to support the in-orbit networking of its large-scale space internet system. Upon full completion, the mega-constellation will consist of approximately 13,000 satellites operating in low-Earth orbit, forming a global satellite communications network with extensive coverage.
This large-scale satellite deployment is expected to play a critical role in advancing China’s digital economy. It will strongly support the development of industrial internet, smart manufacturing, intelligent transportation, marine communications, emergency response systems, and remote connectivity for rural and western regions. The project also strengthens China’s national information infrastructure and supports long-term digital security and technological self-reliance.
Long March 8A Demonstrates Advanced Launch Capabilities
The Long March 8A rocket used for the mission was developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, another CASC subsidiary. The rocket stands 50.5 meters tall, has a liftoff weight of 371 metric tons, and generates a thrust of approximately 480 tons. It is primarily designed to deploy satellites into sun-synchronous orbits and can deliver up to seven metric tons of payload to a 700-kilometer-altitude orbit.
This mission marked the fifth successful deployment of low-orbit internet satellites by the Long March 8A, highlighting its growing importance in China’s satellite internet construction and its reliability for high-frequency commercial and strategic launches.
Expanding Space Capabilities Fuel Economic and Industrial Growth
The latest launch also represents China’s 80th space mission this year and the 612th flight of the Long March rocket family. These achievements reflect the rapid development of China’s space industry, its mature launch services supply chain, and its growing strength in aerospace manufacturing and systems engineering.
The continuous advancement of China’s low-orbit satellite internet system is expected to create powerful momentum for high-end manufacturing, digital services, satellite applications, and next-generation communications industries. It will also support the integration of space technologies with artificial intelligence, big data, and cloud computing, further strengthening China’s technology-driven economic growth.
As deployment moves forward at scale, China’s space-based internet network is set to become an essential foundation for the country’s smart economy, supporting urban digital upgrades, industrial transformation, and nationwide information connectivity.